[MassHistPres] Guardrails

[Gloria Freeman]

Recently, in Chatham, we were able to convince the owner of one of our most historically and architecturally significant houses to save it from demolition. Within a week or so of the decision, highway-style guardrails were installed on property abutting this house – around a pond area.  The guardrails are totally inappropriate for the historic streetscape and the area which offers one of our loveliest vistas. The posts are made of wood, but the rails are made of an orangish-brown rusted steel, which we are told will weather to a brown rusted steel.  Neither this house nor the area is on the National Register or in a designated historic district, so that no Section 106 review was conducted. 

 

Has anyone had experience with guardrails, especially those which might be more appropriate for a historic streetscape? I have seen photographs of a steel- backed timber guardrail, which provides a more rustic appearance.   Perhaps some of you are familiar with it or know of other alternatives. If so, we would be grateful for any advice or information regarding the material and its source. 

 

Thank you. 



Gloria Freeman