History speaks to us through historic homes. They bring us back to an era when simple living was savored. This is evident in the intricate detailing of the architecture and the quality of construction. At the same time they remind us of some of the hardships that that the early occupants endured when modern conveniences such as indoor plumbing, central heating and auto mobiles were non-existent.
These homes serve as artifacts of our countries early beginnings and every effort should be made to research the history of the home and ensure that the historic integrity is maintained for future generations to explore.
One of the first steps is to completely understand the history of your Connecticut home. The more you know about your home the more accurate your rehabilitation/restorations can be. The following are several avenues to explore to discover the history of your house.
Many of Connecticut's towns have been surveyed for the State Historic Preservation Office.
This Statewide Historic Resource Inventory is a comprehensive list of the state's buildings and structures built before 1950.
Identify if Your Home is located in a Historic District
Determine if your building is located in a Local Historic District or a National Register Historic District. The town or city hall will have information if you are located in a Local Historic District. The State Historic Preservation Office will know if you are located in a National Register District. If you discover your property has not been inventoried you could hire a professional researcher such as a Historic Preservation Consultant or undertake the project yourself.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation lists the following steps to help you get started in researching your home.
- Search for deeds, tax records, property abstracts, and maps to determine the history of the building, including its previous owners. Your city or county records office can help you begin.
- Look through city directories, census records, and insurance maps for information on the house's previous owners. Your public library and local historical society will have this information.
- Conduct a search of the house and its yard. An architect or archaeologist can offer advice as to what to look for, and don't forget to search the rafters for records the former owners may have left behind.
- Determine whether the building is a designated historic structure on the local, state or national level, or find out if it is within an historical district. The best places to start are your local historical organization or State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO).
- If your building is a designated historic structure, you may need local approval to make any changes to the exterior. Ask your local planning office.
- Find out if easements or other tax abatement programs may be available to you. Again, your local planning office and local historical commission are the best sources of information.
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