Historical Commission

The Lancaster Historical Commission (LHC) is a town appointed body whose purpose is to preserve historic materials and to survey and identify historic sites in the town. Organized in 1964, it was one of the first such historical commissions set up under the Massachusetts Acts of 1963. The LHC consists of seven members, one of whom serves as the chairman. 

 The LHC is completely staffed by volunteers.  Those interested in doing research can make an appointment by calling  978-365-3326 Extension 1057.

Click HERE to contact the Historical Commission

The LHC maintains archives of historical materials consisting primarily of documents, letters, newspaper clippings, maps and photographs as well as maps and listings for our seven historic cemeteries.

Some of the oldest photographs are from the “Alice Greene Chandler Collection” (from approximately 1860-1900). As well as being an early photographer Miss Chandler was a town librarian. The “James Macdonald Collection” (from approximately 1900-1930), along with a variety of images and  photographs from many  other sources,  further document the town's  long and rich history.

For many years the LHC has been actively surveying historic properties in Lancaster. All nominations for both the Massachusetts Historical Commission Register and the National Historic Register must go through the LHC.  Files on historic properties are available for research.  Information is also available on how to procure markers for historical houses.

Board Members

Historical Commission Members

NameTitleTerm ExpirationStreet Address
Judith Elwell

Secretary

06/30/2025

140 Nicholas Drive

Mark A. Schryver

Member

06/30/2025

370 Goss Lane

Kendra Dickinson

Member

06/30/2024

Ann Fuller

Associate Member

06/30/2027

185 Langen Road

Vacancy Two

Member

06/30/2024

500 Hill Top Road

Amy Brown

Chair

06/30/2026

218 Sterling Road

John Foster

Member

6/30/2025

9 Otis Street

John Murphy

Associate Member

06/30/2026

12 Burbank Lane