QUICK ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS ABOUT
A VOLUNTEER’S ROLE IN A HISTORICAL SURVEY
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE
OF THE TRAINING?
To inform volunteers how to
survey their own or others’ properties to provide a baseline of history for
structures and landmarks in Stratham.
Historic structures are those over 50 years old.
WHAT DOES A SURVEY VOLUNTEER DO?
Record: Based on observation of exterior features, you will create a record of the physical traits of a historic property including architectural style and details, major changes over the years, outbuildings, and landscape features. You will also record an accurate location of the resource.
Photograph: You will take photographs, following the provided guidelines.
Research: Completing parts of the survey will require some research. Research sources may include old maps, photographs, deeds, and interviews.
Data Entry: Survey information will be recorded in a database and also linked to the town’s digital mapping. We will need volunteers to enter survey records into the database.
Other: If these categories do not match with your skills, we have other tasks available.
WHERE WILL A VOLUNTEER WORK?
The first stage of the Survey of Historic Resources is focusing on the area around the Town Center and Portsmouth Avenue. However, if you are interested in surveying any Stratham property over 50 years old, please come to the training session and join this project.
IN WHAT AREAS WILL A VOLUNTEER PARTICIPATE?
You may decide to devote your efforts to recording and photographing or you may elect to be a researcher, or you can be a super star and do it all!
HOW MUCH TIME WILL THIS TAKE?
We welcome you to devote as much or as little time as you can spare.
MUST A VOLUNTEER WORK ALONE?
Surveying is best done in twos or threes, so recruit a friend or family member to join you. If you wish, Heritage Commission will find someone to work with you. We believe in teamwork, but let us know if you prefer another style.
“The historical
resource survey is the backbone of virtually all preservation planning efforts.
No community should be without one.” (NH Preservation Alliance’s Preserving
Community Character, 19xx)
Stratham Heritage Commission
Rebecca Mitchell (778-7979), Chair; Nancy Hansen, Bev Connolly, Flossie Wiggin, Nathan Merrill, Georgiana Law, Dave Canada (Selectman), MJ Werner (Planning Board)