National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a privately funded, nonprofit organization headquartered in Washington, D.C. that is dedicated to the preservation of America's diverse historic sites. Established in 1949, the Trust plays a critical role in the field of historic preservation, advocating for the protection and maintenance of the architectural and cultural heritage throughout the United States.
Mission and Objectives
The mission of the National Trust for Historic Preservation is to protect significant places representing America’s diverse cultural experience by empowering a nation-wide preservation ethic. The organization seeks to inspire public participation, promote preservation policy, and provide leadership to save America's historic places. It achieves this through various initiatives, educational programs, and by maintaining a comprehensive list of National Trust Historic Sites.
Historic Preservation Act
The activities of the National Trust are closely aligned with the National Historic Preservation Act, a pivotal piece of legislation enacted in 1966 aimed at safeguarding the United States' historic and archaeological sites. This Act also led to the creation of the National Register of Historic Places, a federal list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation.
Key Initiatives
One of the Trust's key initiatives is the National Treasures program, which seeks to save historic places by highlighting their significance and ensuring their preservation for future generations. For example, the Trust has championed the preservation of Route 66, an iconic American roadway, as part of this program.
The organization often collaborates with state-level groups, such as the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation, to protect and enhance historic assets at the local level. It also works with various partners, including State Historic Preservation Offices, to identify and protect these sites.
Educational Outreach and Support
The National Trust is deeply committed to educational outreach, offering numerous programs and resources to engage the public in preservation efforts. It publishes an award-winning magazine, which shares stories of historic preservation and showcases the achievements of the Trust's initiatives. Additionally, the Trust provides guidelines and deadlines for grants available to support preservation projects across the country.
Related Topics
- American Battlefield Trust
- Du Pont Family (notably involved in historic preservation)
- Marion duPont Scott, a philanthropist who contributed to the Trust
Through its preservation efforts, the National Trust for Historic Preservation plays an essential role in ensuring that the stories and places that shape American history are remembered and cherished for generations to come.