An analysis of protection for historic interiors

Abstract

This thesis examines three methods of protection for historic interiors: listing in the National Register of Historic Places, preservation easements, and local landmark designations. Each form of protection has strengths and weaknesses. It is a presupposition of this thesis that, in most cases, listing in the National Register does not in and of itself protect historic interiors. Can the tools used to protect historic interiors through preservation easements and local landmark designations be used to improve the national preservation programs as mandated by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, thereby improving the limited protection provided by a listing in the National Register of Historic Places? This thesis demonstrates that, yes the tools used to protect historic interiors through preservation easements and local landmark designations can be used to improve the national preservation programs and improve the limited protection provided by a listing in the National Register of Historic Places. An overview of each form of protection gives a basic understanding of the level of protection each form provided. Case studies of four historic properties are examined to determine the effectiveness and the limitations of each protection method used to protect historic interiors. Each case study is listed in the National Register and the statement of significance played a key role in determining if the historic interiors were protected. The thesis concludes with an analysis of each form of protection. Proposed changes to the national preservation program incorporate the effective tools used to protect historic interiors by preservation easements and local landmark designations. Some of the improvements suggested are: adding a list of character-defining features to the National Register nomination form, requiring a disclosure statement with a property transfer that would include the National Register nomination and a copy of the Standards, penalties for violating the NHPA, and updating the National Register bulletins to include information about nominating and evaluating historic interiors.