FAQs (Top 10)
- Why survey?
Surveys aid in identifying what resources are present in a particular area. This information can then be evaluated to create an inventory and determine local, state or national significance. - Why should the recent past be surveyed?
Resources from 50 years ago to the present are ‘coming of age’ quickly. Much of our current building stock was constructed after World War II and is in danger of being severely altered or demolished. It is important to know which resources are present so proper protection can be administered to the significant resources. - What time periods are considered the recent past?
Most consider resources building less than 50 years ago to fall into this category of the recent past. This is attributed to resources younger than 50 years to needing meet Criterion G of Exceptional Significance in addition to fulfilling one of Criterion A-D to be listed the National Register of Historic Places. Once a resource is over 50, it only needs to fulfill one of the Criterion of A-D to be eligible for listing. - What are the different types of survey?
”Reconnaissance may be thought of as a “once over lightly” inspection of an area, most useful for characterizing its resources in general and for developing a basis for deciding how to organize and orient more detailed survey efforts.
An intensive survey, as the name implies, is a close and careful look at the area being surveyed. It is designed to identify precisely and completely all historic resources in the area. It generally involves detailed background research, and a thorough inspection and documentation of all historic properties in the field. It should produce all the information needed to evaluate historic properties and prepare an inventory.”[1] - Which type of survey should we utilize?/How to determine what to survey?
Please follow the link to National Register Bulleting #24 and scroll to Elements of Survey Planning. The heading ‘How is the purpose of the survey established?’ will help answer your questions. - Do we need to hire professionals?
Hiring professionals may be necessary if your local commission does not either have qualified personnel, time or the resources available to complete a survey. - What kind of qualifications should they have?
Please follow the link to National Register Bulleting #24 and scroll to Mobilizing Resources for the Survey. The heading ‘What qualifications should those supervising a survey have?’ will help answer your questions. If you determine you need to hire professionals, continue down the document for some suggestions as to where professionals may be located and how to select one. - Where do I find information on the architectural styles of the recent past?
Link to our section - Where do I find information on the architectural details and materials of the recent past?
Link to our section - Where do I find examples of surveys?
Link to our section
[1] Patricia L. Parker, “Guidelines for Local Surveys: A Basis for Preservation Planning,” National Register Bulletin, No. 24 (1985), http://www.nps.gov/nr/publications/bulletins/nrb24/chapter1.htm.