research

Topic: Arts Environments: Heritage and Preservation

"Heritage" and "preservation" are terms often associated with historic places and cultural identity. Heritage and preservation initiatives in the United States range in scope, but remain focused on the legacy of places and peoples. From the revitalization of a downtown to the erection of a monument, local communities across the country are dedicated to preserving authentic cultural experiences.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit organization devoted to helping Americans preserve their past. While preservation is a worthwhile venture in its own right, it has also proven to spark economic gain and tourism development. The National Trust for Historic Preservation has developed model programs that can be utilized and adopted at the local level:

• Main Street Revitalization
  Main Street revitalization focuses on improving commercial districts in towns and cities across the country and has proven to be a successful economic development strategy.
• Rural Heritage Program
  The Rural Heritage Program supports the efforts of rural communities in preserving rural historic and cultural resources such as farmland, scenic byways, heritage areas and parks, historic roads, and countryside.
• Heritage Tourism
  Cultural heritage tourism is defined as “traveling to experience the places, artifacts and activities that authentically represent the stories and people of the past and present.” This can include cultural and artistic activities, historic places, and natural resources.