Preservation News

Historic Preservation beyond National and State Programs

 Since the establishment of the National Preservation Act of 1966, Historic Preservation movements have been defined by the national guidelines created as part of this program. And yes, I am an avid supporter of the historic preservation activities endorsed and created through this program, and cannot imagine what many communities would have lost without federal and legislation protecting historic resources. Federal and State historic preservation programs have done an incredible job promoting and preserving the built part of our heritage.

However, I think it is important for us to remember that this program was not intended to be the definitive authority of what is historic and what is not historic. It only provides a guideline. I admit, that it is an important guideline if you are seeking federal or state recognition, or grants from the various agencies and non-profits that support preservation activities. If this is your only goal, that is fine. The programs are flexible enough to keep most people busy applying for grants, tax abatements, and seeking assistance on how best to protect resources eligible for listing.

The community programs that have the most value in my opinion, occur naturally, regardless of the available funding or recognition that is available. Let's consider an example of this for a moment. The preservation act was established in 1966. However, the first "historic district" was formed by zoning in 1931, 35 years prior to the National Preservation Act. This district was formed by the City of Charleston, South Carolina. The establishment and protection of this district is approaching it's 80th year, and has won the city many distinctions over the years. The Charleston Historic District was listed as a national landmark in 1960, six years prior to the passing of the National Historic Preservation Act.

A Look at the Importance of the National Register of Historic Places: 66 Motel

I wrote this nomination while I was a graduate student at the University of Oklahoma more than 16 years ago.  It was on our list of places to visit during a study of  historic resources along Route 66 in Oklahoma. The funding was provided in part by the

State Historic Preservation Office, who, in my opinion, was instrumental in providing the support necessary that created a number of local history programs, and opportunities for professionals such as myself to get started.

The day we had a bit of overcast, which made a perfect backdrop for this silver building with red painted trim under the neon accents.  At the time that I took this picture, the clock on the front of the building was still in perfect operation.  The 66 Motel was built around 1933.

I purposely wait for cars and people to be out of the picture before I take it, otherwise this portion of decommissioned Route 66 was still somewhat busy, although travelers passed it by, opting to take I-44 to Oklahoma City instead of following the section of meandering road of what used to be Route 66.