Do you live in a Cambridge home built before 1930? This is for you.
Cambridge boasts a rich tradition of residential architecture, distinct from Boston and its neighboring towns. Its unique social history—as county seat, university hub, Boston suburb, and cultural melting pot—has produced a remarkable variety of houses. From masterpieces by renowned American architects to vernacular designs crafted by local carpenters, the city’s neighborhoods still reflect the creativity and individuality of generations of Cambridge builders, contractors, and architects.
To help preserve this heritage, the Cambridge Historical Commission published Maintaining Your Old House in Cambridge in 1988. This comprehensive guide, written by experts in the field, equips homeowners and tenants with the knowledge to protect both the structural soundness and visual character of their homes.
The text and accompanying illustrations offer clear, practical advice on repairs and upkeep that honor a house’s stylistic integrity. Topics range from fences, siding, and gutters to chimneys, contractor selection, and more. Illustrated throughout, the book remains an invaluable resource for anyone caring for an older home.
And if you ever need additional guidance, the Cambridge Historical Commission is available to provide technical assistance on rehabilitation and restoration projects—ensuring that your home continues to embody the city’s architectural legacy.
To obtain your own copy of Maintaining Your Old House in Cambridge for just $10, click here, stop by our office at 831 Mass Ave, or email us at histcomm@cambridgema.gov.
