How is the house plaque made?
Historic Cape Cod has partnered with the Chatham Sign Shop to provide handcrafted house plaques for homeowners. HCC's traditional sign size is approx. 10" x 13.5" (some exceptions made for unique circumstances.) The sign is made of ¾ thick white Azek, a cellular PVC material that's made using weather-resistant technology. The core contains no wood fibers. It won't absorb moisture or be susceptible to rot. It is also resistant to termites. This paint is specifically formulated for the outdoor sign industry and is very long-lasting. Holes are pre-drilled and stainless steel screws are provided for installation.What does the plaque say?
Each handmade plaque displays your home's build date and identifies the original owners, or significant residents, and their occupations. If the exact date cannot be determined, circa or c. will be used. We reserve the right to deny specific requests for special wording on plaques that we feel are inconsistent with the history of the house.Where should I place my house plaque?
Your house plaque should be placed on the outside of your home, at eye level, facing the street. If architectural features, fences, or landscaping make that impractical, plaques may be mounted higher, including on the second floor to improve visibility. Care should be taken to minimize any confusion with your house number.Who can participate in the house plaque program?
Any Barnstable County homeowner can request a house plaque from Historic Cape Cod. Whether you own a single-family home built in the 1600s or a new multifamily, your home qualifies for a house plaque!What if my town already has a plaque program?
Some towns have placed markers on historic buildings in conjunction with the National Register of Historic Places. Unlike other programs, Historic Cape Cod’s Plaque Program is available to all Barnstable County homeowners regardless of the home's age or known significance. Homeowners must do their own due diligence regarding restrictions placed on their homes by local historic districts, homeowners associations, etc. Additionally, the information gathered for a House History or House Genealogy by Historic Cape Cod has the potential to be used by the homeowner to seek further designations such as a listing on the National Register of Historic Places.Who conducts the research for my plaque?
Historic Cape Cod is partnered with a team of award-winning historians, archivists, historic preservationists, and architects from Cape Cod and greater New England. You may have seen our colleagues consulting on HGTV or presenting at History Camp - Boston.The real estate listing says the year our house was built, is that correct?
Unfortunately, real estate listings are not always the best source for learning a home's build date. These dates are compiled through various means such as when the lot was first taxed and some dates are entirely speculative and based on the building's architectural style.What about homes built prior to 1827?
On October 27, 1827, a fire destroyed approximately 94 volumes of land deeds, leaving a gaping hole in the history of Barnstable County’s land ownership. Many of these deeds were later rerecorded but gaps still remain.If your home was constructed prior to 1827, additional research may be needed to identify the approximate build date of your home. In this instance, we rely on available maps, documents, and architectural clues to inform us. For those interested in an even closer look at their home’s construction, Historic Cape Cod offers an optional site visit and architectural study with a renowned Architectural Historian for an additional fee.
Can I order more than one plaque for my house?
Of course! If you would like a duplicate plaque for your home, simply let Historic Cape Cod know and we will place an order for you. Each custom HCC plaque costs $155.00 (shipping included when ordered with a House History or House Genealogy.).png)