National Register of Historic Districts
Overview
The National Register of Historic Districts is a federal program in the United States that identifies and protects districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture. Administered by the National Park Service, the program was established under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA). Historic districts listed in the National Register are recognized for their contributions to the historical and cultural fabric of the nation.
Criteria for Evaluation
The National Register evaluates historic districts based on four primary criteria:
- **Criterion A:** Association with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history.
- **Criterion B:** Association with the lives of persons significant in our past.
- **Criterion C:** Embodiment of the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.
- **Criterion D:** Have yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in prehistory or history.
Nomination Process
The nomination process for the National Register of Historic Districts involves several steps:
1. **Identification and Evaluation:** Properties are identified and evaluated by state, tribal, and local preservation offices. 2. **Preparation of Nomination Form:** A detailed nomination form is prepared, including a description of the property, its significance, and a justification for its eligibility. 3. **Review by State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO):** The SHPO reviews the nomination and may provide recommendations for revisions. 4. **Submission to the National Park Service:** The nomination is submitted to the National Park Service for final review and approval.
Benefits of Listing
Listing in the National Register provides several benefits:
- **Recognition:** Official recognition of the property's historical significance.
- **Protection:** Consideration in the planning of federally funded or licensed projects.
- **Financial Incentives:** Eligibility for certain federal tax provisions and grants for preservation activities.
- **Technical Assistance:** Access to technical preservation services and advice from the National Park Service.
Challenges and Controversies
The process of listing and maintaining historic districts can be fraught with challenges and controversies, including:
- **Property Rights:** Concerns from property owners about restrictions and regulations associated with listing.
- **Funding:** Limited funding for preservation activities and maintenance.
- **Development Pressure:** Balancing preservation with the need for modern development and infrastructure improvements.
Case Studies
Several historic districts serve as notable examples of the National Register's impact:
- **French Quarter (New Orleans, Louisiana):** Known for its vibrant history and architecture, the French Quarter is a prime example of a historic district that benefits from National Register listing.
- **Georgetown Historic District (Washington, D.C.):** This district showcases the preservation of early American architecture and urban planning.
- **Savannah Historic District (Savannah, Georgia):** Renowned for its well-preserved antebellum architecture and city planning.
Preservation Techniques
Preservation of historic districts involves various techniques, including:
- **Restoration:** Returning a property to its appearance at a specific period in history.
- **Rehabilitation:** Making a property suitable for contemporary use while preserving significant historical features.
- **Conservation:** Protecting and maintaining the existing condition of a property to prevent further deterioration.
Legal Framework
The legal framework for the National Register of Historic Districts is established by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and subsequent amendments. Key provisions include:
- **Section 106:** Requires federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties.
- **Section 110:** Mandates federal agencies to establish preservation programs for properties under their jurisdiction.
Future Directions
The future of the National Register of Historic Districts involves addressing emerging challenges and opportunities, such as:
- **Climate Change:** Developing strategies to protect historic districts from the impacts of climate change.
- **Digital Documentation:** Utilizing digital tools and technologies for documentation and preservation.
- **Community Engagement:** Increasing community involvement in preservation efforts to ensure the sustainability of historic districts.