July 21, 2015

National Register Guide, Episode 4: Why Should I List a Property?

Eastern Market in Washington, D.C.

photo by: Josh, Flickr

As fantastic as it is, the National Register of Historic Places can get a little confusing -- even for a seasoned pro. But fear not, because the PreservationNation blog has teamed up with Jim Gabbert, a historian with the National Park Service, to create our National Register Guide.

Episode Three of our National Register of Historic Places Guide addressed questions and debunked myths about any requirements or restrictions the National Register imposes on listed properties.

Episode Four explains some of the less tangible reasons why listing a property on the National Register is important, and how listing a property can affect a community’s perception of itself. This video answers specific questions like:

  • Why would I want to list a property in the National Register?
  • What are some of the less tangible effects of listing a property on the National Register?
  • Can listing in the National Register help with local planning?
  • Can listing in the National Register help with fundraising?
  • Can the National Register be used as a teaching tool?
  • How does utilizing place-based history benefit the local community?

We hope you enjoy the show.

Special thanks to the President Woodrow Wilson House for filming accommodations.

David Weible is a former content specialist at the National Trust, previously with Preservation and Outside magazines. His interest in historic preservation is inspired by the ‘20s-era architecture, streetcar neighborhoods, and bars of his hometown of Cleveland.

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