[MassHistPres] Church Re-Use

[Sullivan, Charles M.]

Don't overlook the emotional component of church reuse projects.

Cambridge has several relatively non-controversial examples of church conversions to housing, both affordable and otherwise, but currently one group of former congregants is making a conversion very difficult for an affordable housing agency here. The Historical Commission - which has jurisdiction while the building is being studied for landmark status - is wrestling with the question of whether religious objects on the exterior should be retained or not. These consist of two crosses and a terracotta panel that includes a bust of the Virgin Mary. These objects are integral to the building and important to the community, but may not be appropriate for the new use. No decision has been made yet on how to treat this issue.

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Charles M. Sullivan, Executive Director
Cambridge Historical Commission
831 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, Mass.  02139
617 349-4684 voice, 349-3116 fax