Many properties in proposed local historic districts are listed in the National Register of Historic Places or are inventoried with the Massachusetts Historical Commission. These designations offer only minimal protection and are honorary in nature. Some houses have no protection at all. By creating a local historic district, the historic character of the building(s) in a local historic district will be much better protected. The difference between a National Register of Historic Places and Local Historic District designation is detailed by the Massachusetts Historical Commission: There’s a Difference!