To learn more about the program, access their information sheet or visit naptownchickens.org.

This document has been compiled to provide residents and property owners of Historic Meridian Park (HMP) with a set of guidelines to assist residents and property owners in determining appropriate exterior modifications.  This document was carefully developed using the The Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties: http://www.nps.gov/hps/tps/standguide.  The full HMP document can be found at the renovation guidelines page.  Following are examples of some common modifications in HMP.

EXISTING BUILDINGS

BUILDING MATERIALS – Appropriate

Wood - Retain original exterior wood siding and trim materials through repair, cleaning, painting, and routine maintenance procedures. Preserve original architectural details and features which characterize the building exterior around and including windows, doors, porches and eaves or replace by using components of the same material and design when deteriorated beyond repair.

Masonry - Maintain masonry through proper tuck pointing, and cleaning when necessary. Mortar joints shall be re-pointed only when there is evidence of moisture problems or when mortar has deteriorated and allows water to penetrate the building through the joint. Pointing mortar shall duplicate the original in composition, strength, color, texture, joint size, method of application, and joint profile. Remove deteriorated mortar by hand raking or a manner equally sensitive to the historic material. Clean, when necessary, by the gentlest method possible so that the original color and texture of masonry surfaces are preserved (i.e., low pressure water, natural bristle brushes). In some instances, stronger chemicals may be necessary such as muriatic acid and paint strippers (follow manufactures instructions and test in inconspicuous location)

Stucco - Maintain stucco surfaces through gentle cleaning and repainting when applicable. Use a stucco mixture which duplicates the original in composition strength, texture, and general appearance to repair damaged surfaces.

Terra Cotta - Retain and preserve architectural terra cotta elements through a program of regular inspection, caulking and replacement of missing pieces, and re-pointing of joints with a mortar compatible to the original in composition, strength, texture, and color. Undertake cleaning with low pressure water, detergent, and natural or nylon bristle brushes.

Architectural Metals - Identify, retain, and preserve architectural metal features, such as columns, capitals, window hoods, and stairways (including finishes and colors) that are important in defining the overall historic character of the building. Protect and maintain architectural metals from corrosion by providing proper drainage. Clean surfaces, when appropriate, using the gentlest means possible for the particular metal, to remove corrosion prior to repainting or applying other appropriate protective coatings. Repair architectural metal features by patching, splicing, or reinforcing the metal following sympathetic rehabilitation methods. When possible, limit replacement only to extensively deteriorated or missing parts of a feature using in kind materials. If an entire feature is deteriorated beyond repair, replacement units must duplicate the original form and detailing based on physical or photographic evidence.

BUILDING MATERIALS - Inappropriate

The application of siding materials not consistent with the character or style of building or unavailable when the building was constructed and therefore is foreign to the structure, (such as artificial stone or brick, asbestos or asphalt shingle, insul-brick, plywood, particle board, hard board, and aluminum or vinyl siding) is inappropriate.

Because artificial sidings have been documented to cause serious, costly, and often irreparable damage to underlying materials and structural members, HMP has determined that the use of these siding materials in rehabilitating historically designated properties is inappropriate and incongruous with the goal of preservation. Furthermore, the use of artificial siding materials in new construction projects is considered inappropriate and incompatible with the character of designated historic districts. For these reasons, HMP discourages the use of artificial sidings in local historic districts.

Do not use abrasive cleaning methods, such as sandblasting, on any exterior surface. These methods of cleaning erode the material’s surface which allows moisture to accelerate deterioration and changes the original texture and appearance of the building material.

Do not repoint masonry with a mortar incompatible with strength, composition, color and texture of the original. Pointing mortars with high Portland cement content create a bond stronger than the building material itself. Electric saws should not be used to remove mortar as they can cause serious damage to the adjacent brick and change the joint size.

Removal of sound paint from historically painted masonry surfaces is inappropriate. Some buildings are constructed of softer brick and were originally painted for protection; removal of  intact painted surfaces may hasten deterioration of the exposed surface. A test patch should be tried before extensive paint removal is attempted.

Where:  Good place to start is the home of Kathie and Adam Gibson at 5870 Carrollton Avenue

Details:  Meridian-Kessler Neighborhood Home & Garden Tour Celebrates “I Love My Home Because … ”  The tour is one of Indiana’s oldest tours of vintage homes, offering guests a view of unique architecture, innovative interior design and recent renovations.  The tour features 7 homes and gardens in one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods.  Tour homes are selected for their interior and exterior design, as well as, their distinguishing architectural elements.  Tour proceeds support MKNA and its revitalization efforts.

“I Love My Home Because …”
The theme for this year’s tour highlights the many and diverse reasons Meridian-Kessler residents love their historic homes and the neighborhood’s authentic charm and character:

• “Walking to cozy cafes and family restaurants for brunch, dinner or coffee.”
• “The array of neighborhood markets, shops and boutiques.”
• “Living close to Butler University and feeling the college spirit and camaraderie.”
• “The proximity to the Monon Trail and Canal.”
• “The huge trees and charismatic, traditional homes.”
• “Being close to downtown, Broad Ripple and minutes from the northern suburbs.”
• “Parks, gymnasiums and swimming pools, allowing residents of all ages to be active.”

Tickets
Tour tickets can be purchased the day of the event for $15 at any tour home.  Presale tickets are available for $12 online at www.mkhometour.com or by visiting any of the following starting June 1:

• The Fresh Market – 54th and College
• G. Thrapp Jewelers – 56th and Illinois
• Café Patachou – All locations
• National Bank of Indianapolis – All locations

About Meridian-Kessler
Originally on the outskirts of the city, Meridian-Kessler became a highly desirable neighborhood in the early 20th century.  The area is home to many historic properties, including large estates as well as smaller bungalows and cottages. The home and garden tour was created in the 1970’s to promote the history, beauty and unique architecture of the neighborhood.  The neighborhood is bordered by Kessler Boulevard to the north, 38th Street to the south, Meridian Street to the west, and the Monon Railroad line to the east.

Contact:  Katie Dolan

• The homeowner must agree to water and maintain the trees
• The homeowner must be home when the tree is planted.
• KIB will select a few types of trees that fit into the history and character of the neighborhood; homeowners will be able to select the tree of their choice among them.

The plantings will take place rain or shine.  The actual planting date is to be determined.  KIB will visit our neighborhood in June to begin planning. If you are a Washington Boulevard homeowner and are interested in having a tree planted in your yard free of charge as part of this program, please contact Cassie Mehlman-Rhys at cassiemehlmanrhys@gmail.com.  MANY THANKS to KIB for their second generous tree grant to our neighborhood; the first was a Delaware Street tree planting a few years ago.

Social Gatherings: Dues pay for items such as eating utensils, plates, drinks, food, and event signage for neighborhood social events are all purchased with funds supported by HMPNA dues.  The social events are a jewel in our community and help promote a close a cohesive community that is a great place to raise a family or retire.

Neighborhood Beautification:  Dues support alley clean-up activities.  In an attempt to keep the alleys clean and safe, HMPNA arranges with the City of Indianapolis for the use of city equipment tp aid in alley clean-up activities.  Neighborhood volunteers and city personnel spend a weekend morning in the spring and fall cleaning our alleys.  The supplies needed to create and maintain the beautiful roundabout at 32nd and Pennsylvania St. and the median at 33rd and Pennsylvania St. are also purchased by HMPNA.

Senior Advocate Program: Do you know a senior in the neighborhood that has received assistance from the Senior Advocate program?  HMPNA dues help support the Senior Advocate program and, in return, directly support the seniors in our neighborhood.

Equipment Use: Planning a gathering at your home?  Need table and chairs for your guests?  If you’ve paid your HMPNA dues and are an HMP resident, you may borrow the table and chairs used at the neighborhood social gatherings for free.  The tent may be rented for $25.  Residents wishing to use the tables, chairs, and/or tent are asked to contact the Board Treasurer at least 3 weeks in advance. Neighbors need to arrange for pick-up and drop-off of the equipment and should plan to return the items in clean condition.

Yard Sale: Neighbors participating in the neighborhood yard sale received advertising in the Indianapolis Star.

As the temperatures begin to rise, so does the chance for crimes such as burglaries.  People begin to spend more time outside and away from their homes.  Oftentimes, people open windows and doors to let in that “fresh spring air.”  All the while, this could be helping a burglar plot a crime against your home and belongings.

Michael Maxwell discussed the steps needed if you feel your home has been burglarized, but also what to do if you think a crime is in process.  Mr. Maxwell identified proactive steps we can take to protect our home and belongings:

• Write down the serial numbers of all your valuables and keep the numbers in a safe place.
• Do not keep serial numbers on your computer, as computers may be stolen by burglars.
• Keep receipts when new valuables are purchased and add those items to your homeowner or renter insurance policy.
• Engrave your valuables with a UV laser or professional engraver. This sends up a “red flag” to police when items are recovered.
• Do not allow flat-screen TVs or computers to be visible from the street.
• Keep doors and garages locked at all times, even if you are in your front or back yard.
• For crimes in progress, call 911 immediately!

When the police come to investigate, they cannot take finger-prints from most surfaces.  Additionally, the following contact numbers were provided to either report a crime not in progress or if you are unsatisfied with the police after you have reported a crime:

Dispatch Non-Emergency: 327-3811
Commander Thomas Koppel: 327-6991
Crime Reduction Specialist, Lt. Dale Braun: 327-6112
Community Resource Liaison, Officer Michael Maxwell :327-6119

To continue our crime prevention education, Daphne Whitmire from the Prosecutor’s office gave a follow-up presentation on April 25th to HMP residents on how to safeguard homes from being a target for burglars. She also brought UV lasers and an engraver which she is loaning to HMP for 90 days so that residents can mark their valuables. To borrow these items, please contact HMPNA Board Member Bryan Bigelow at bryan.bigelow@att.net.

Crimes such as burglary will always exist.  However, we have a key component to help avoid or lessen this circumstance:   You and our neighbors!!

The HMPNA is in the process of revamping our Safe Neighbor Awareness Program (SNAP).  Think of this program as a neighborhood Crime Prevention block club.  Currently, we are seeking out volunteers to be Block Captains.  Block Captains serve as the organizer and informer for their defined block.  They will notify their neighbors of meetings, recent crimes in the area, and help welcome new neighbors in the area.  We can’t have enough volunteers for this program. The more involved we are as a neighborhood will result in a decrease in criminal activity.  If you would like to volunteer for this, please contact Board Member Bryan Bigelow at bryan.bigelow@att.net.

The Mid-North “Pride Tour” will be one of several tours that conference participants can choose from as part of their conference experience. The tours are meant to highlight and showcase great Indianapolis neighborhoods. The Mid-North tour will include Historic Meridian Park, Mapleton Fall Creek, Highland Vicinity, Crown Hill, Meridian Highland, Watson-McCord, the Indianapolis State Fairgrounds, and The Children’s Museum and will showcase neighborhood histories, important cultural, educational, and civic institutions and landmarks, the quality and beauty of our housing stock, and our numerous community social, civic, and beautification efforts accomplished by good neighbors and neighborhood partners. But most importantly, the tour will tell the important story that “working together works!”

For more information about the conference or the tour, go to the conference website at http://www.nusa.org/ConfRegistration.aspx.

As part of the effort, Historic Meridian Park will participate in the Mid-North Clean-Up Day scheduled April 28^th, 2012. Hundreds of volunteers will be assisting the Mid-North neighborhoods with their clean-up and beautification projects on that day.

HMP’s very-own Dick Luchtman, the “Titan of Trash,” asks that you volunteer and “bring your best hands.” Because in addition to our usual alley clean-up, HMP will also be cleaning our streets, planting trees on Washington Boulevard, and sprucing up our green-spaces on Pennsylvania Street including the roundabout. We need HMP volunteers to turn out like never before!

Please mark your calendars for April 28^th at 9:00 AM, meet at the roundabout on the NE corner of 32^nd Street and Pennsylvania Street! Refreshments will be provided. Children are also welcome. If you have any questions, please contact Dick Luchtman at 317-727-6864.