The National Register of Historic Places: An Introduction

For anyone interested in listing historic properties on the National Register of Historic Places, the first place to begin is the official website of the Register. This list is maintained by the National Park Service. At http://www.nps.gov/nr/national_register_fundamentals.htm, readers will find all types of National Register information ranging from the very general to brochures and newsletters describing the specifics of the nomination process.

Also, there is a searchable database of listed properties. However, this research tool is incomplete, and I have found that very few properties have actually been added to the database in full. So, the listing of a property may come up, but there will be no available photos or a copy of the nomination documentation available for viewing. Do not despair though! If you would like information on a specific property, you may contact the state historical commission or SHPO's office (that the State Historic Preservation Officer). For properties in Tennessee, you may visit http://www.tn.gov/environment/hist/. Word of caution; however, this website does not list individual properties. BUT, you may contact the staff at the Commission and they can provide you with the information you need. I have found them to be extremely friendly and helpful...not to mention very passionate about what they do. The Commission also provide preliminary nomination packets for those considering to attempt a nomination. By completing the paperwork within the packet and sending it back to the Commission, the staff will evaluate the property and determine the potential eligibility of a property and can provide and wealth of information and assistance throughout the process.

Here in middle Tennessee, we are very fortunate to also have the Center for Historic Preservation that is "attached" to the Public History department at Middle Tennessee State University, and is overseen by Dr. C. Van West. The center is located in Murfreesboro and provides much useful information about the field of preservation here in our area.

The nomination process for listing on the NRHP can be very difficult, and many people opt to hire a professional or at least someone familiar with the process. Nonetheless, the benefits of listing a property can often times make it worth the effort. In future posts, I will address some of the myths and misconceptions about NRHP listing.