As a subconsultant, Kleinfelder provided cultural resources services in support of the on-going redevelopment and hazardous material abatement at the Great Northern Paper (GNP) Administration Building and Engineering & Research Building. Utilizing US Environmental Protection Administration (EPA) grant monies, Our Katahdin plans to remediate the historic buildings in a manner that does not preclude potential future use of federal and/or state historic tax credits.

Retaining Over 100 Years of Character Defining Features

When constructed in 1899, GNP was the largest paper mill in the world and spurred the rapid development of Millinocket. The GNP Administration Building, which was built in 1912, and the 1961 Engineering & Research Building both continue to retain a high level of original integrity and exemplify GNP’s economic heft and importance throughout the 20th century. To utilize historic tax credits in the future, remediation of the buildings will need to retain as many character defining features as possible.

Maintaining Historic Integrity

After conducting a site visit and review of historical research and records associated with the GNP Administrative Building, Kleinfelder prepared a Character Defining Features Report that provides an in-depth assessment of exterior and interior elements that convey the building’s significance associated with the paper industry as well as its architectural style and construction methods. The report also provides recommendations for how future development should consider the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

Kleinfelder also prepared a National Register nomination for the site as a small historic district, which was listed in 2023. The district consists of the remaining buildings, structures, and objects related to GNP’s administrative function in Millinocket. The listing will also be a source of community pride for the site that is closely linked to its establishment and growth.

Project Results

Kleinfelder’s work gives Our Katahdin and future developers a better understanding of the actions that are conducive to historic preservation and will assist the remediation team in retaining materials and configurations that are character defining features of the property so historically sensitive decisions can be made in the future. Furthermore, the National Register nomination is part of a long-term plan to utilize federal and state historic tax credits that can be an incentive for developers.

Project Details

Location:
Millinocket, Penobscot County, ME

Owner:
Our Katahdin