Chestnut Hill Historical Society

Description

The Chestnut Hill Historical Society (CHHS) was founded in 1967 to recognize and protect the area’s significant historic buildings, open space, cultural landscapes, natural features and community archives.

The purpose of CHHS is:

• To preserve land in Chestnut Hill and its adjoining neighborhoods for historic, recreational, scenic, agricultural or open space opportunities.
• To preserve architecturally significant buildings in Chestnut Hill and its adjoining neighborhoods.
• To preserve the natural and designed landscape features that characterize the Chestnut Hill Historic District as listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
• To maintain an archive of historic documents and photos depicting Chestnut Hill and its adjoining neighborhoods.
• To provide educational programs and information relating to conservation, preservation and history.

• CHHS listed almost 3,000 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, one of the largest historic districts in the nation. Many buildings have also been protected through Philadelphia Register listing.
• An accredited PA Land Trust, CHHS holds dozens of conservation and preservation easements, permanently protecting 88 acres of open space and 13 historic buildings. If you wish to join many of your neighbors in both conserving your land and earning a significant tax break, talk to us.
• Our collection of over 21,000 architectural drawings, maps, building records, diaries, books, and historic photographs are available for public research in our Archives, with much now available online. Contact a Staff Archivist to make an appointment; Archives are open Monday through Saturday.
• The CHHS Resource Center provides information to anyone who contacts us or visits our website - with info on contractors, suppliers, and best practices in maintaining your historic property.