Amherst NH Historic Village

The Historic District, the largest in New Hampshire, comprises more than 1600 acres and 120 buildings. The district encompasses the central Village area as well as the area on State Route 122 by the Police Station, out Christian Hill Road, and over to Boston Post Road. The District is so designated by the U.S. Department of the Interior, under whose basic regulations the National Historic Landmark designation has been earned.

There are over 100 properties of historical significance in the District covering the period from 1700-1924 and incorporating important Colonial, Federal and Greek revival properties. Unlike some towns where a few properties may be on the National Register, the entire Historic District is on the National Register. In brief, the Historic District has played a significant role in understanding the history of our town, and our role in local and regional history.

Amherst's past is significant in the history of New England and indeed in the nation. The Village Common has played an important role in the cultural development of the community and has served as a center of activity for nearly 200 years. The designation, Historic District, means that the District possesses significance in American history, architecture, or culture and retains its historic integrity. To be eligible for the National Register the landmark must not have lost the physical qualities that convey its significance.

Today, Amherst Village Historic District has not only retained its integrity, it has also been a continuous cultural resource that is still central to most of Amherst's community functions including the Fourth of July, Antiques on the Green, Easter egg hunts, the Farmers Market, the Tree Lighting, and the summer band concerts just to name a few.

The members of the Amherst Historic District Commission are volunteers appointed by the Board of Selectmen. The commission is a unit of town government and is subject to the rules and regulations of the state of New Hampshire and the U.S. Department of Interior, which provides guidelines for historic preservation.

The commission has just completed the publication of a pamphlet, "Welcome to Historic Amherst Village" which describes the purpose of the District and the regulations that govern the construction, maintenance and rehabilitation of properties in the District. The pamphlet, which is intended to help homeowners with their decision-making and the permit process, is available at Town Hall and the Amherst Town Library.

Helen Rowe is the chairperson.

From Amherst Historic Commission as appeared in the August 28, 2007 edition of The Amherst Citizen.

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