Plaque Program

Plaque Program

The Foster Preservation Society has promoted the identification of homes and buildings, some of which are listed in the State and/or National Register of Historic Places, and others which may not be on the Register but have local importance.  These buildings are awarded plaques which bear the name of the original owner and date the house was built.

To apply for a Foster Preservation Society plaque, please see the House Plaque Program Guidelines shown below.  

For more information, feel free to contact us via phone 397-5687 or via email at fps181@gmail.com

House Plaque Program Guidelines

Objectives:
Foster is fortunate in having many 18th and 19th century buildings with architectural and historical value, that when appropriately restored and maintained are a visual history and a desirable asset of the town. The recognition and encouragement of well maintained, and carefully restored, old homes will promote their protection. We consider that the preservation of Foster’s architectural and rural heritage will improve the quality of its visual environment and the life of its people.

Buildings Eligible for Plaques:
Buildings of architectural or historical interest which enhance the character of a road or neighborhood, and which are appropriately maintained on the exterior, are eligible for a Foster Preservation Society Plaque.

Appropriate Preservation:

1. Exterior – use of the same kind of materials (old or new) as would have been used in the period of construction, the outward appearance should closely represent original style materials. For example it is easy and not too costly to put new clapboards on a building of the 18th or 19th century. Procedure for Application:

2. Exterior details – all exterior details should be retained, replaced or suitably modified using appropriate materials and forms.

3. Roofs – rooflines should be respected and where it is prohibitively expensive to restore with original forms or materials modern materials should be used which show sensitivity to the colors and textures of the original. Light-colored roofing materials are generally inappropriate for earlier buildings.

4. Colors – wherever possible, the exterior should be painted in a manner and color sympathetic to the period of the building.

Procedure for Application
An owner may apply in writing to the Foster Preservation Society for a House Plaque application form. The form should be filled out in as much detail as possible and sent to the Society. An appointment is not necessary; however, the Society may wish to consult with the homeowner. The plaque, as designed by the Preservation Society, will be ordered by the Society at cost to the home owner. The Plaque Committee will notify the owner in writing of the committee’s decision.