What we want to do

• Recognize and honor the unique nature and significance of our Downstreet buildings and structures that hold a historical, cultural, and social significance for our community.

• Encourage the preservation of historic properties by documenting their history and significance.

• Provide information to interested Downstreet property owners about the history of their buildings and, eventually, ordering plaques that allow them to highlight that history.

• Conduct further research into the five buildings (Vinalhaven Public Library, Union Church, the Galamander, the Star of Hope Lodge, and the Moses Webster House) already listed in the NRHP.

• Prepare a survey to determine eligibility for a historic district and submit to the Maine Preservation Commission for approval. Once approved by the state, the application will be forwarded to the National Park Service for final approval.

• Fund the research and applications at no cost to the property owners, though donations will be appreciated.

• Be a resource for information for property owners who want to pursue grants or tax incentives by connecting them with the appropriate organizations/agencies.

The benefits of establishing a Historic District

• Encouraging the preservation of historic properties by documenting their history and significance.

• Encouraging the rehabilitation of income-producing historic properties through tax incentives.

• Providing property owners with the eligibility to apply for grants for historic preservation.

What it means to own a structure in a Historic District

• Listing a district in the NRHP is an honorary designation that gives official recognition to the historic and cultural importance of a property as part of an area of significance. It does NOT restrict the rights of private owners in the use, development, or sale unless the owner has taken advantage of tax incentives or grants that may be available. The idea that NRHP regulates things like paint color, etc. is not correct. That sort of restriction would only apply if Vinalhaven established local preservation ordinances, such as Historic Zoning.

• Depreciable properties in the NR can qualify for certified rehabilitation tax credit incentives under the historic preservation provisions of the Tax Reform Act of 1986.

• Control and authority over the use and disposition of a property listed in the NRHP or deemed eligible for such listing remain solely with the owner unless they have applied for and received a matching grant or other Federal funding or is participating in a rehabilitation tax credit project. Listing in the NRHP does not mean that limitations will be on the property by the Federal government. Public visitation rights are not required by the owner.