The answer is simple: dedicated preservation restoration specialists such as historians, architects, engineers and surveyors record as much information as possible about the sites. Based on these details, mockups are created and serve as reference materials for all future work on the buildings. This allows for realistic and historically correct restoration and preservation of numerous culturally valuable sites throughout our country and the rest of the world.

Not so long ago, blueprints and models were used to record this kind of information. But in recent years, 3D laser scanning and 3D graphics software have become increasingly popular for these projects. 3D lasers enable surveyors to quickly and accurately to measure even the most miniscule details and process them in 3D software programs to create ultra realistic digital models of the sites.

Feldman Land Surveyors – Scanning Historic Boston

When Feldman first adopted 3D laser scanning technology, we realized this technique could be a valuable method to record local historic sites. Since Boston—the “Cradle of Liberty”—and the surrounding area have numerous buildings and landscapes of national historic significance that are managed by government or non-profit with limited budgets, our firm launched our pro-bono program: Feldman Land Surveyors – Scanning Historic Boston. Our goal is to help provide a digital 3D archive and reference library of Boston’s most loved historic sites.

Since founding the program in 2008, each year we choose two sites from a number of nominations and perform 3D laser scans of them—pro bono. To date, we’ve scanned the following sites:

• African American Meetinghouse
• Boston Public Library
• Clapp Barn
• Fairbanks House
• Old South Meetinghouse
• Old State House
• Paul Revere House
• Shirley Eustis House
• The Blake House
• Symphony Hall
• Millis Bandstand

As professionals who work with sites, structures and buildings every day, it’s our honor to contribute to the preservation of Boston’s valuable landmarks. Our goal is not only to help preserve our heritage, but also encourage others to become involved in the conservation of our city. You can read more about our pro bono projects on our website, as well on those of the sites listed above. And stay tuned for news and updates on future projects!