Office of Historic Preservation

Office of Historic Preservation

Princeton residents have inherited a rich architectural and historical legacy that strongly contributes to Princeton’s unique physical appearance and sense of community. This legacy is visible in structures such as Bainbridge House, Morven, Tusculum, The Waxwood, and the Route 206 Stony Brook Bridge. 

Princeton is one of the few places in New Jersey that still has a representative sample of architecture from every period of its past. Despite this, a large number of the historic structures and landscapes are threatened. To protect Princeton’s historical character and heritage, the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) was established. 

The role of HPC is to preserve and enhance the community’s historic structures, landscapes, and streetscapes from inappropriate alterations, unwarranted demolition, and to ensure new construction is compatible with the character of historic buildings in Princeton’s 20 locally designated historic districts. 

The Office of Historic Preservation and HPC strive to protect Princeton’s history for the education and civic pride of Princeton residents and visitors today, and for generations to come.