[MassHistPres] Demolition of a Newton Local Landmark

[WN Hill Preservation]

We discovered last week that a builder has demolished an 18th
century farmhouse, one of Newton's 24 Local Landmarks
<https://www.newtonma.gov/government/planning/historic-preservation/newton-city-landmarks>.
This took place 3 months after the sale to a developer, despite very
specific preservation measures discussed at length and agreed with the
Historical Commission, and a stop work order from the inspectional
department.

The farmhouse in our Oak Hill neighborhood originally belonged to the Hyde
family, ancestors of the first mayor when the city was incorporated,James
F. C. Hyde <https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_F._C._Hyde>.

We are interested to learn from others if you have had something like this
occur and how it was handled, including penalties. There is a strong
concern that if this builder gets away with a light penalty that gives a
green light to others.

Another note is that the property was listed by the realtor
<https://www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/29-Greenwood-St_Newton_MA_02459_M36199-25165>
as "shovel ready" ... "get to work with your backhoe on day one."

Laura Foote
West Newton Hill Preservation Initiative



wnhpreservation at gmail.com
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