Lessons on Naperville's historic district

Naperville's Historic Preservation Commission is inviting residents to learn more about the city's historic district and its future.

Commission members will discuss the historic district at 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 26, in Lower Level Meeting Room B at the municipal center, 400 S. Eagle St., Naperville.

Attendees will learn how the district works under the city design guidelines, the correct steps to take for those who want to make changes to their historic homes and information about the district's general architectural and historic nature.

The historic district near downtown encompasses more than 350 structures with a variety of architectural styles, including Greek Revival and Italianate.

Debbie Grinnell, Naper Settlement's vice president of advancement and campus development, said the meeting will provide an opportunity for community members and owners of historic homes to learn more about Naperville's history.

"Naperville is fortunate to have such a wide range of architectural styles and history that is being cared for by those who own homes and buildings within the historic district," Grinnell said.

"We are excited to share some of that as well as encourage residents to use the many resources available to them, including those at Naper Settlement."

Naper Settlement's chief curator, Louise Howard, and curator of research Bryan Ogg and Grinnell will give presentations on the background of Naperville's historic district. The museum staff also will talk about the local plaque program, architectural walking tours and other resources available to property and homeowners.

All properties within the district, which was established by the city council in 1987, are protected by the city's Historic Preservation Ordinance. The ordinance requires owners of locally designated properties to obtain a Certificate of Appropriateness from the city before making most exterior alterations to a historic structure.

The meeting also will allow owners of historic structures to ask city planners any questions they may have pertaining to the COA processes.

For details, call (630) 420-6010.