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1. What properties qualify?

To participate in the program and obtain a marker for a home or other structure, property owners (applicants) would be asked to ensure that the structure meets two or more of the criteria outlined below:

• Age - The home or other structure was built prior to World War II.
• Historic Event - The structure or site is associated with a particular event that has contributed to our understanding of local, regional, or national history.  A marker meeting this criterion might read, for example, “Site of 1775 Revolutionary War Skirmish between Colonial and British Militias.”
• Person(s) - The structure or site is associated with the life or lives of an individual, a family, or a group who has made a notable contribution to local, regional, or national history, culture, or arts, even if the names of those persons are no longer known. In the instance of unknown names of an individual or individuals, it is the contribution or connection to history that is being noted. 
• Period/Style - The structure embodies distinctive characteristics of clear, classifiable periods of architecture or styles of construction. This criterion applies to the work of noted architects or builders as well as to simpler vernacular styles.
• Cultural Landscape/Archeology - The site of the structure named in the application has yielded or is likely to yield, information important to the understanding of our local prehistory or history of record.  Such a marker might read, for example, “c. 1800, Site of the Oldest Known Tavern in the Town of Southborough.”

2. How do I apply?

How to Apply

1. Hard copies of the application will be available at the Town House or can be requested via email. Homeowners will fill out the application and submit a photo and inventory form (when applicable) from the Massachusetts Historical Commission database or any other relevant information on the property.  Please keep sign information relevant to the historic significance of the property.
2. Once completed, submit your application and check made out to Ould Colony Artisans for $62, to:
   Southborough Town House
   17 Common Street 
   Southborough, MA 01772
   Attn: House Sign Program, Southborough Historical Commission
3. The Historical Commission will review your application at the monthly meeting as quickly as possible (30 to 60 days). Once sign information is confirmed, the Historical Commission will submit your sign order to Ould Colony Artisans who will create your sign and mail it to you for hanging.

Additional Information

• The Historical Commission may contact you via Email or Phone to suggest any recommended changes to your sign.
• Participation in the Historic Sign Program does not limit your property in any way.