Who Decides If a Place Is Historic? Unpacking the Layers of Designation
The question of "Who decides if a place is historic?" might seem straightforward, but in reality, it involves a multi-layered process with various authorities and criteria. It's not a single person or entity making a unilateral decision. Instead, it's a collaborative effort often driven by passionate individuals, historical organizations, government agencies, and the public itself, all working within established guidelines and often with significant legal frameworks.
Understanding the Criteria: What Makes a Place "Historic"?
Before delving into *who* decides, it's crucial to understand *what* criteria are typically used. A place doesn't become historic simply because it's old. Significance is key. Generally, a historic place possesses one or more of the following qualities:
- Association with important events: The site played a direct role in significant historical events that shaped the nation, state, or local community.
- Association with important people: It was the birthplace, residence, or workplace of individuals who made significant contributions to American history or culture.
- Embodiment of distinctive characteristics: The property represents a style of architecture, a building type, or a construction method that is significant. This could include unique design, materials, or craftsmanship.
- Potential to yield information: The site has or may yield important information in archaeology or history.
The Key Players in the Designation Process
Several entities play a role in recognizing and protecting historic places. These can operate at national, state, and local levels.
The National Register of Historic Places
The most prominent and comprehensive list of historic properties in the United States is the National Register of Historic Places, administered by the National Park Service (NPS), a bureau of the U.S. Department of the Interior. However, the NPS itself doesn't *decide* on its own. The process involves several steps:
- Nomination: Most nominations to the National Register originate at the state or tribal level. Individuals, historical societies, property owners, or government agencies can initiate the nomination process.
- State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs): Each state has a SHPO that plays a crucial role. The SHPO reviews nominations for their state, conducts research, and often helps property owners or nominating groups gather the necessary documentation. They are the primary gateway for most National Register nominations.
- Tribal Historic Preservation Offices (THPOs): Similar to SHPOs, THPOs serve federally recognized Native American tribes.
- National Park Service: Once a nomination is approved by the SHPO or THPO, it is sent to the National Park Service in Washington, D.C. The NPS staff then reviews the nomination to ensure it meets the National Register criteria. A special review board, the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, also has input in certain cases.
- Listing: If the NPS finds the nomination meets the criteria, the property is formally listed on the National Register.
It's important to note that listing on the National Register is primarily an honorific designation. It doesn't automatically restrict what owners can do with their properties, but it can make them eligible for certain tax credits and grants for historic preservation. It also triggers review for federal projects that might affect the property.
State and Local Designations
Beyond the National Register, many states and local municipalities have their own historic designation programs. These are often more stringent and can impose stricter regulations on property owners.
- State Historic Districts and Landmarks: States may have their own registers or designated historic districts that offer varying levels of protection and incentives.
- Local Historic Districts and Landmarks: Cities and towns across America have established their own historic preservation commissions or boards. These local bodies are often the most direct decision-makers for places within their jurisdiction. They typically have their own criteria for designation, which are often based on local history, architectural significance, and community character. A local historic commission, for instance, will review nominations for properties or districts within their city or town.
The Role of the Public and Experts
While formal bodies make the ultimate decisions, the public and a wide range of experts are integral to the process. Historians, architects, archaeologists, preservation consultants, community advocates, and concerned citizens all contribute through research, advocacy, public hearings, and by bringing properties to the attention of SHPOs or local commissions. Without public interest and expert knowledge, many significant places might go unrecognized.
"The decision to designate a place as historic is rarely a simple tick-box exercise. It involves rigorous research, evaluation against established criteria, and often a strong community component. It's about telling the stories embedded in our built environment."
How the Process Unfolds: A Hypothetical Example
Imagine a dilapidated but architecturally significant 1920s movie theater in your town. Here’s how it might be considered historic:
- Discovery and Initial Interest: A local history buff notices the theater and believes it's historically important due to its Art Deco design and its role in the community’s entertainment past.
- Research and Documentation: The history buff, perhaps with the help of a local historical society or a preservation consultant, researches the theater’s construction, its original owners, famous performances held there, and its architectural style. They gather old photographs, newspaper clippings, and architectural plans.
- Nomination: They prepare a nomination package for the local historic preservation commission. This package would include the research, photographs, and a statement of significance explaining why the theater meets local designation criteria.
- Local Commission Review: The commission holds a public meeting where the nomination is presented and discussed. Neighbors, the current owner, and any interested parties can voice their opinions. The commission deliberates and votes on whether to designate the theater as a local landmark.
- State or National Register (Optional): If the theater is deemed significant enough, the nomination might then be forwarded to the State Historic Preservation Office for consideration for the State Register or the National Register of Historic Places, following a similar review process.
Conclusion: A Collective Effort to Preserve Our Past
Ultimately, the decision of whether a place is historic is a collective one. It’s a testament to the value society places on understanding its past. From the passionate researcher in their attic to the formal deliberations of a national park service board, a chain of individuals and organizations works to identify, evaluate, and protect the sites that tell our American story. These designations are not just about buildings; they are about preserving narratives, cultural heritage, and the tangible links to the people and events that have shaped who we are today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I nominate a place to be considered historic?
The process typically begins with researching the property's potential significance. For the National Register of Historic Places, you would usually contact your State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) or Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) to learn about their specific nomination procedures and guidelines. For local designations, you would contact your city or county planning department or historic preservation commission.
Why are some places designated historic while others aren't?
Designation is based on established criteria of historical and architectural significance. A place must demonstrate a strong connection to important historical events or people, represent a significant architectural style, or have the potential to yield important historical information. Not all old places meet these criteria for formal recognition.
What are the benefits of a place being designated historic?
Benefits can vary but often include increased property values, eligibility for tax credits and grants for rehabilitation projects, protection from demolition or incompatible development (especially with local designations), and a sense of pride and community recognition. It also helps preserve the character of a neighborhood or town.
Can a private owner prevent a place from being designated historic?
While private owners are typically notified and have opportunities to comment or object during the nomination process, the final decision on National Register listings is made by the Secretary of the Interior or their designee. Local designations are made by local governing bodies, and while owner consent may be a factor in some local ordinances, it doesn't always have the final say, especially if the property is deemed of overwhelming public interest.
