10 Historic Massachusetts Properties Named 'Most Endangered' for 2025

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Preservation Massachusetts has unveiled its 2025 Most Endangered Historic Resources List. It highlights 10 historic Massachusetts properties at risk of demolition and in need of funding and legal protection.

The endangered sites span the state and include the following:

Buddy's Diner in Somerville
Campanile in Springfield
Donald T. Clark House in Lexington
Ellen Stone Building in Lexington
Gen. John Glover Farmhouse in Swampscott
Hudson Armory in Hudson
Percy Browne House in Marion
Smith Baker Center in Lowell
William Russell Allen House in Pittsfield
Williams Boltwood House in Goshen

According to a WickedLocal.com report, owners nominated the properties, members of the community, towns, and local organizations, and the nominations were voted on by an anonymous review committee, Preservation Massachusetts said.

Common challenges facing the properties include deferred maintenance, structural issues, hazardous materials, high restoration costs, and the need for philanthropic or public funding to advance preservation.

Active preservation actions are underway for several of the properties listed above.

Pittsfield is funding a feasibility study on the William Russell Allen House.
Tabor Academy is studying the Percy Browne House in Marion.
The Lexington Historical Commission has imposed a 21-month demolition delay on the Donald T. Clark House, which will expire in October 2026, the organization said. Neighbors have protested the demolition after the home's current owner filed for a demolition permit.
Swampscott has also enforced a demolition delay for the Gen. John Glover Farmhouse, pending further study of the property.
Hudson Armory and Lowell's Smith Baker Center are pursuing funding for the restoration of these historic structures.

Massachusetts

Michael VyskocilWriter