[MassHistPres] Need for Expert to Date Materials and Design of Potentially Historic Building

[Lucy Kennedy]

The Lenox Historical Commission administers a demolition delay bylaw.  A property we have been asked to review has, we know, been occupied since the 1770’s.  The owner requests permission to demolish the house and some outbuildings.  We don’t know when the structures were built - or if they even contain historic building materials. 

We are looking for suggestions on hiring an expert to inspect the building and help us determine if all or part of the structures on the property now are from a pre-20th century period.  The house has been unoccupied for some time and is deteriorated, but the aging may have been to a 20 year old building or a 200 year old building. We would probably be looking for a combination of expertise on historic building materials, architecture, archaeology and historic preservation.

Your help on identifying an appropriate resource very much appreciated.

Lucy Kennedy
Lenox Historical Commission