The Town of Yarmouth is fortunate in having a wealth of historically and architecturally significant buildings. In 1972, as a means of increasing awareness of our architectural heritage, the Village Improvement Society (VIS) instituted a marker program to identify these structures. With the dissolution of the VIS in 2022, Yarmouth History Center is proud to continue this work.
Any building constructed before 1940 is eligible to be considered for a marker. Buildings erected after 1940 must be of special historic or architectural interest to be considered. Markers recognize the architectural and historic integrity of the exterior of the building where exposed to public view. The building must be in good repair and must display the original architectural intent. Any alterations should not have damaged the original essential form, integrity, or quality of the architecture.
The marker states the name of the original owner, the architect (if known), and the year of construction (as close as can be determined from historical records). The logo of the VIS, the banner weathervane from the steeple of the Old Meetinghouse on Hillside Street, appears in the lower left corner and signifies that the information on the marker has been documented. Research may be done by the owner or by History Center staff. Should the owner choose to do their own research, a copy of the findings, including sources, is required and will be verified by staff.
The following fees apply:
- Research and marker package: $200 (includes one-year family membership to Yarmouth Historical Society)
- Research without a marker: $50 (includes one-year family membership to Yarmouth Historical Society)
- Marker only: $150
Replacement markers for houses already in the program may be ordered for a cost of $150, with a $50 deposit due at order placement.
Please contact Yarmouth History Center staff for more information about the marker program or to apply for a marker: info@yarmouthmehistory.org or (207) 846-6259.
