Somersworth HDC launches historic-plaque program, selects three inaugural recipients

Somersworth Historic District Commission members on Aug. 27 announced a new historic-plaque program and selected three properties to receive the first plaques.

The program opens applications to owners of historic properties across Somersworth; application forms will be available at City Hall and the Somersworth History Center, and winners will pay a $100 application fee. The commission said plaques will be made in partnership with the Career and Technical (CDC) program at Somersworth High School.

Why it matters: The commission described the plaques as a way to recognize property owners who preserve historic character and to increase public visibility of Somersworth's historic assets. The HDC said it plans to continue the program annually and to present at least one plaque per year by commission selection.

Staff member Miss Crosley told the commission that five ‘‘projects of minimal impact’’ had previously been approved (fence or roof replacements at 157 High St., 98 High St., 23 Prospect St., 8 Prospect St., and 30–32 Highland), and the plaque program was discussed separately as a new initiative.

Miss Berry, a member of the Somersworth Historic District Commission, displayed a sample plaque and said, “I think they came out amazing,” and later said, “I hope everybody is excited as we are to start seeing these plaques around town.” Commission member Brooks noted that the panel chose three properties that ‘‘showed great character’’ and had been well maintained.

The three properties selected for 2025 are 45 Market Street (the Great Falls Bank), 315 High Street (identified by the commission as the Grace House/John Ouellette House), and 50 Maple Street (the Charles Plummer House). The commission said one or more recipients were not present at the meeting and that plaques would be mailed to absent awardees.

Discussion and next steps: The commission did not record a formal roll-call vote on the plaque selections in the portion of the meeting transcript provided; members described the selections as coming from a prior workshop and staff coordination. Commissioners discussed continuing the program annually and soliciting applications from across the city.

Applications and contact: The commission said application forms will be available at City Hall and the Somersworth History Center; the application fee is $100. The commission did not specify an application deadline during the meeting.

A note on scope: The commission said properties do not have to be inside a formal HDC overlay to be eligible, and that selection emphasizes upkeep and adherence to historic character as interpreted by the commission.