What is Historic Preservation?

Historic preservation is the process of identifying, protecting and enhancing buildings, sites, landscapes and other artifacts of historic significance. Complete Communities use historic preservation to conserve both their natural resources and their built environment. Rehabilitation of older buildings helps preserve the character and heritage of a community, which can help to attract new businesses and keep existing ones profitable.

Historic preservation also aims to preserve the integrity of the materials and features of a building. For example, it is important to keep the carved doorways of a house as they are found in the original, rather than replacing them with modern ones.

Among other things, it can be one of the most cost-effective means of revitalizing a community or boosting local employment opportunities. It can also be a fun challenge to identify, assess, and preserve the many historical sites that dot our communities.

Generally, the most successful historic preservation initiatives are those where public and private groups work together to achieve a common goal. This often takes the form of a well-publicized and coordinated campaign that encourages local citizens to learn more about their town’s history. This could include a comprehensive website, a newsletter, a series of brochures, and a community museum. It could also mean a major renovation or rebuilding of an existing landmark.

Historic preservation helps to determine the look of a community by safeguarding structures, buildings and landscapes that may have historical value or significance. This may include anything from commercial and industrial buildings to bridges or barns.

Educating the public about the importance of preservation can help to encourage community support. This can be accomplished through presentations to community organizations, dramatizations such as period Halloween walks or Thanksgiving celebrations, and posters and handouts.

Historic buildings and places often have a higher value than similar new structures. This is because they have a history to them that makes them more interesting and appealing to people. This can make them a great investment for developers, businesses, and individuals who own them. It also can help to turn around a struggling town or community.

Historic preservation is a great way to boost the value of your home or business. However, you will need to be careful when pursuing this type of investment. Aside from the economic benefits, it can also be a good way to get involved in a community. It can also help to create a sense of pride among residents.

Communities that preserve and rehabilitate historic buildings, neighborhoods, landscapes, archeological sites, and other landmarks tend to be more economically and environmentally sustainable. They conserve resources, reduce waste, and save money by repairing and reusing existing structures instead of tearing them down and building new ones.