Get Preservation Answers at “Ask The HPC” Event, May 8

In celebration of National Preservation Month, the Westfield Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) will host an informal open house on Thursday, May 8, from 6:30 to 8:30 pm in the Local History Room of the Westfield Memorial Library, 550 E. Broad Street. Residents are encouraged to drop in during the two-hour event with preservation-related questions such as researching a home’s history, designing historically appropriate renovations, and the process for designating historic properties.

Members of the HPC, Westfield Historical Society and the Westfield Memorial Library will be on hand along with building professionals to answer questions and guide attendees. Among the local reference materials available for study will be historic maps, neighborhood histories, and reference books on popular architectural styles.

Library personnel will demonstrate online resources including local Sanborn Insurance Maps from 1886 to 1927, Westfield Leader issues dating back to 1900, and a century of Westfield city directories. Renovation-related questions, including stylistically appropriate materials, colors and designs, will be fielded by architects and builders specializing in historic properties.

“Westfield residents take a great deal of pride and interest in the history of their homes and neighborhoods,” said Jennifer Jaruzelski, HPC chair. “We hope property owners will drop in and take advantage of the wealth of historic resources and experienced professionals at their disposal.

Education is our best ally in preserving Westfield’s rich architectural heritage.”

“Ask The HPC” is being hosted in conjunction with the Westfield Memorial Library in their newly reorganized Local History Room on the second floor. It is free and open to the public and no registration is required. Handouts and door prizes will be available. For additional information, visit wmlnj.org or westfieldnj.gov/historicpreservation or email hpc@westfieldnj.gov.