Maine Preservation

Six restoration projects across the state were recognized at the Yarmouth-based nonprofit's annual awards ceremony, held In late March.

Sound isolation and acoustics between studios were paramount considerations, involving tightly constructed ductwork weaving through historic trusses.

From a town hall to a music hall, Maine Preservation is out with its annual list of historic places that are in jeopardy.

Grants of $1,750 to $10,000 each were awarded by Maine Preservation in partnership with a Connecticut-based nonprofit, for projects to repair and restore historic structures.

“Intentionally built in harm’s way hundreds of years ago, they are threatened today by one of the most rapidly changing and volatile bodies of water on the planet,” said Tara Kelly with Maine Preservation.

Frances Perkins, an influential figure behind Roosevelt’s New Deal, spent summers throughout her life at the Newcastle family homestead, named a National Historic Landmark in 2014.

Having a tax credit that benefits homeowners could provide support for ongoing stewardship, weatherization and housing opportunities.

The team behind the resurrection of the historic Lemont Block in Brunswick received a 2023 Maine Preservation Honor Award for its work. 

Maine Preservation has partnered with other like-minded organizations for apprenticeship and fellowship programs for youth and new professionals, but more needs to be done to address rehabilitation projects for historic structures and revitalization.

The funds are expected to take the buildings “from imminent danger to become viable reuse projects, providing expanded economic, cultural, and community opportunity.”