Make your home a part of history!
Enter the exciting world of house history research and celebrate your house’s past with a commemorative plaque. This program highlights the historical and architectural significance of Portsmouth’s buildings and cityscape. These plaques are an enduring, visual reminder of the individuals and families that have shaped our city’s rich history. Join us in celebrating and preserving Portsmouth’s heritage!
APPLICATION PROCESS
- Start. Fill out our “Get Started” form.
- Research. Use the resources linked below, attend one of our workshops, or get in touch with our genealogist.
- Select. Determine the year and resident you would like to feature on your plaque.
- Submit. Send in your three documents supporting your chosen resident.
- Approval. Our genealogist will review and confirm your research.
- Receive your plaque! Congratulations, your plaque supports historic advocacy.
FAQ
Who can get a plaque?
How old is "Historic"?
Even new houses will be historic someday! This program is open to all buildings in Portsmouth, regardless of their age. Get your plaque today and share your building’s history with future generations.
What documentation do I need?
To apply for the program you need to provide THREE of the following types of documents:
- Deed History
- Historic Maps
- Written Narrative
- Citizen Records
- Historic Property Survey
How do I start researching?
Overwhelmed? Check out our events calendar to attend the next Portsmouth Plaques event. We collaborate with the Portsmouth Athenaeum and the Portsmouth Public Library to bring house history research resources and programs to the community. These programs happen every few months and help you get the research process started.
Is there a fee to get my plaque?
Yes. The cost for a plaque is
$250 for a Small Plaque 9″ X 11.25″
$275 for a Large Plaque 11.25″ X 16″
We require a $50 non-refundable deposit at the time of application.
How long does it take to make my plaque?
Once your plaque application has been approved by our historian and you’ve confirmed the text for your plaque, production takes about a month. We intend to provide progress updates along the way.
Is there a way to have the research done for me?
Yes! Our historian can do the research for you after an initial consultation. There is an hourly charge. Please reach out to advocates@portsmouthhistory.org to learn more about this service.
Get started on your historic house research with our Help Sheet and the resources linked below.
Resources
Maps
About the Plaque Program
The Historic House Plaque Program, first initiated by Portsmouth Advocates in the 1980s, was revived multiple times over the years. For Portsmouth’s 400th anniversary in 2023, the program was revitalized by a volunteer committee in collaboration with PortsmouthNH400 and the Portsmouth Athenaeum. After the anniversary celebrations, the Portsmouth Historical Society, now merged with Portsmouth Advocates, stepped in to work alongside the volunteer committee.