2026 Historic House Tour
Tradition Reimagined: Douglas Orr and the Colonial Revival
Step inside six exceptional private homes designed by Douglas Orr, from Lincoln Street to Prospect Hill, concluding with a reception at the New Haven Lawn Club, one of the architect’s masterpieces.
Ralph and Theodora van Name House (1924), courtesy of the New Haven Museum
Engagement takes
many shapes and paths
Today, 60 years after the James Dwight Dana House was saved, the New Haven Preservation Trust has not run out of work. New Haven is a living, changing city, but its distinction lies in its wealth of history. As the Trust enters its next 60 years, its members will continue to be an active force, defending and promoting the valuable architectural heritage that defines our community.
Education Efforts
Supporting education and innovation in preservation
NHPT Office is Open by Appointment
Whether working from home or in the office, the Trust remains fully engaged — please contact us by email with your concerns and queries.
Character-Defining Features of The New Haven Green
Currently, the City and the Proprietors of the Common and Undivided Lands are considering proposals for improvements to the Green. The New Haven Preservation Trust and Preservation Connecticut are convinced that needed improvements can be made to the Green while continuing to protect and enhance its identity as the symbolic heart of New Haven. To aid in planning, the two organizations have created a list of the features that define the Green’s historic character.
Our Upcoming Events
New Haven Preservation Trust offers a range of tours and lectures throughout the year, which all are welcome to attend. Many of these events are held online.
View Our Video Archive
Visit our YouTube channel to watch past lecture and event videos, along with interviews with New Haven architects including Edward E. Cherry (shown above) who played a major role in the post-war architecture of the city.
Tax Credits for the Rehabilitation of Historic Homes
By assisting homeowners with property renovations and maintenance, the Connecticut Historic Homes Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program has helped stem the cycle of urban blight, abandonment, and disinvestment in the state’s urban residential neighborhoods.
Heritage Date Plaques
Celebrate the longevity of our community—over 350 years old—and build pride in New Haven’s architectural diversity. All buildings in New Haven are eligible to display a heritage date plaque. No particular historic significance is necessary, and no renovation or restoration is required.
New Haven Modern Architecture
Our website celebrating modern architecture in New Haven — the mid-century architects’ playground — features an inventory of over 250 structures built in New Haven between 1931 and 1980.
