Preservation Resolutions for 2024
At the Preservation Alliance, we’re impressed every day by people like you who are caring for an old house, barn or other special community place. To celebrate, we’ve put together some big and little ideas of ways to engage in preservation activity. We also didn’t want to miss the opportunity to provide some varied ideas and inspiration to those looking to make some sticky commitments on their 2024 resolutions list.
Seize Energy Savings
Weatherproofing your historic windows can be more beneficial to the environment and just as energy efficient as replacement windows.
An energy audit can help you prioritize investments; check NH Saves for options.
Focus on properly-installed insulation in your attic and around your foundation.
“Re-tune” old windows to keep cold air out and preserve original features of your old house. Maybe this is the year for new storm windows or for bronze weatherstripping.
Programmable thermostats and home management systems with remote features can lower energy costs and stress. Second home owners and others should consider systems that monitor water breaks and interior low temperature during the winter months.
Check our old house & barn resources for more information and our Directory of Preservation Products and Services for key contacts. We have lots of webinars and blog posts about energy efficiency for older houses.
Spread the News of Preservation’s Benefits - and Spread Joy, Too!
Community support is an important part of preservation efforts.
Be part of your town’s master planning process and be a voice for preservation. Whether you’re on the heritage commission or historical society, let your elected leaders know where you stand on issues.
Mention the high job satisfaction and good pay for preservation trades people to a young person or someone looking for a new career.
Invite someone to visit a local historic site, or hike and ski at a place with wonderful natural and cultural heritage. NH boasts a handful of small local ski areas from the 1930s that cost less than $20 for a ticket, from Claremont to Wolfeboro, Littleton to Manchester.
Thank a neighbor who has fixed up his or her barn. We recommend using barn stamps if sending a postcard.
Give to Local Preservation Efforts
Join the N.H. Preservation Alliance or renew your support.
Become a member of your local historical society or preservation organization.
Buy a “Moose Plate.” Proceeds support New Hampshire’s natural, historical, and cultural resources. To date, the plates have raised over $25 million for scenic curtain restoration and window repair at town halls across our state.
Preservation activity creates local jobs and keeps more money circulating in local economies than new construction, and is part of the landscape that attracts visitors and businesses to New Hampshire. For you, it also can be an activity that makes you feel good and connects you to special places, old friends and new ones.
Email us at projects@nhpreservation.org if you have a question on a different topic or have a suggestion for our readers.