What is a historic district?

The National Register of Historic Places, operated by the National Park Service, is the official list of historic sites worthy of preservation. Sites are nominated by independent parties or individuals and then approved by commissions on the state and federal level.

Individual buildings and sites can be nominated for the Register, but bigger areas of historic significance can also be nominated as a district. According to the Register’s definition, a historic district is “a geographically definable area, urban or rural, possessing a significant concentration, linkage, or continuity of sites, buildings, structures, or objects united by past events or aesthetically by plan or development.”

Why is Historic Downstreet (HD) proposing a historic district?

HD’s mission is to encourage, undertake, and support the preservation and restoration of structures and objects of architectural and historic significance in and around the downtown area of Vinalhaven. We believe that designating the downtown area as a historic district will make others—our fellow islanders and visitors alike—fully aware and appreciative of Vinalhaven’s history and the vast contrast between then and now. To us, it’s never been more important to preserve that we have left while acknowledging and memorializing what we’ve lost.

How will Vinalhaven benefit from having a historic district?

Not only will the historic district raise awareness of Vinalhaven’s rich, unique history, it will also encourage further preservation of the Downstreet area. If accepted onto the Register, our district will become eligible for preservation incentives, such as federal preservation grants for planning and rehabilitation. Building owners may also apply for grants and tax credits.

Where will the historic district be?

Based on research so far, HD is proposing a historic district that is roughly bounded by Union Church to the east and the Legion Hall to the west. We are currently working to discuss our plans with building owners within our desired area and, further along in our application process, will release a sketch of the district’s proposed boundaries.

Will all the buildings within the historic district, even ones like the Post Office, be listed on the National Register of Historic Places?

No. While a historic district does encompass all the buildings and structures within a nominated area, those buildings and structures are not listed individually. Five sites within the proposed district—the Star of Hope Lodge, the Moses Webster House, the Galamander, Union Church, and Vinalhaven Public Library—are already listed on the Register and will not lose that distinction. If building owners want to nominate their own building for individual inclusion on the Register, they can contact HD for guidance and support, or learn more here.

Aren’t there a lot of restrictions placed on historically designated buildings?

No, inclusion on the Register is an honorary designation only. The creation of a historic district on the Register does not automatically invoke local historic district zoning. Unless the municipality has established local ordinances for a historic district zone, which the Town of Vinalhaven has not done, there are no rules regarding the use or appearance of buildings within the district. Public access to buildings is also not required after the establishment of a historic district. (In short: paint your building whatever color you’d like!)

Additionally, there are no restrictions regarding the raising of structures as a measure against sea level rise.

Why bother preserving Main Street when so many buildings are vacant, run down, or threatened by flooding?

We believe in the importance of preserving the history that we have left to us, rather than doing nothing at all. HD knows that, given the challenges of insurance (FEMA or private), building ownership on Main Street is increasingly challenging. We can provide support and guidance to owners in a variety of ways that ensure the preservation of our beloved downtown.

What does the process look like?

Receiving designation on the Register won’t happen overnight! HD is currently working to raise awareness, gather information, and conduct research that will support our application for nomination to the Register. We are speaking with building owners, working with the Historical Society, hosting public programs, and consulting others who have undertaken this process. Once we feel that our application is strong, we will submit it to the Maine Historic Preservation Commission for consideration—a process that could take months or years to complete.

How can I help HD in their efforts?

Since our main goal is to inspire pride in our island’s history, taking the time to learn about and appreciate our efforts is a great start! We also coordinate several events that can help islanders and visitors learn about the history we’re trying to preserve. Take a look at our exhibit in the windows of the newly-restored Star of Hope Lodge; visit the Old Engine House on Main Street when it’s open; or attend one of our walking tours this summer.

When the time comes that we accept monetary donations to support our efforts, we will post the relevant links and information here on our website.

If you are interested in lending your skills or interest to supporting our application, please contact us!