Hayward Youngest Historical Commission Chair

21-Year-Old Elected Co-Chair of Medford Historical Commission

– Allison Goldsberry

21-year-old architecture student Ryan Hayward is a history buff with a mission: to preserve and reuse historic buildings in a way that’s respectful of their past.

Hayward, a member of the Medford Historical Commission since 2007, will join Nino Susi as the co-chair this spring and is the youngest person to ever serve as chair.

Hayward’s friends think the position is a perfect fit.

“Young or old, Ryan is an asset for Medford and its rich history,” said Rick Leary.

“I do not think there is anyone in Medford who knows more about its historic houses and architectural fabric. It is always fun to name an old house by address and ask Ryan about it. It is almost impossible to stump him!” Said Tom Lincoln.

Hayward, a long-time volunteer at the Medford Historical Society and Isaac Royall House, became involved with the Historical Commission when they asked to use his photographs of Medford’s historic structures for their website. He joined the group shortly thereafter.

“I have lived here in Medford my whole life and love my community so I feel that involvement is the best way to give back to the community what it has given me, which was a long and rich education. Of course I’m also on the commission because it coincides with my personal interests, which include architecture and history,” said Hayward in an email.

Last year Hayward helped the Commission put together a preliminary study report for the protection of twelve properties from the 17th and 18th centuries in Medford. He is currently assisting Medford with survey planning.

The Commission applied for funding to survey the city in an attempt to identify historic properties for preservation, which has not happened since 1974, according to Hayward. Hayward says the 1974 survey is too “out of date,” does not include many of Medford’s historic properties, and does not meet today’s historic preservation standards.

Hayward is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Design Studies at Boston Architectural College. He goes to school at night and works full-time for B. Goba & Associates, P.C. Architects.