The National Register of Historic Places, a vital resource for preserving our local heritage, is the nation’s official list of buildings, structures, objects, sites, and districts significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering and culture. It plays a crucial role in recognizing and preserving important properties at the local, state or national level. Properties are approved for the list based on their description, history, and significance. Suffield, with twelve houses, sites, or districts on the National Register, including the Alexander King House, is a testament to the importance of this preservation effort.
The most apparent benefit of the listing is the formal recognition of the significance of a property in American history. The Suffield Historical Society, as the caretaker of the Alexander King House, is a key player in preserving our local history. The Society, a private, non-profit organization, relies on outside financial and human resources to ensure the King House & Barn remains a welcoming place to experience our local history. Your support, which can take several forms, is essential.
An additional advantage of a National Register of Historic Places listing is that the property owner may be eligible for federal, state, and non-profit grants and preservation incentives. The dollars that enable these grants and incentives originate with the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund and are administered by each State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO.) The Society has already received a Planning and Survey grant from the CT SHPO and intends to apply for a Restoration Grant upon the conclusion of the Condition Assessment. However, these grant dollars are competitive and, more importantly, currently under threat due to a massive federal budget cut. This potential budget cut is a grave concern for all who value our historic properties.
This is a call to action for all who care about our heritage. Please consider contacting Senators Blumenthal and Murphy and Representative Courtney to ensure they recognize that Suffield needs their support on this issue. The Historical Society has made it easy by posting a suggested message on our website at www.suffieldhistoricalsociety.org.