|
The Challenge of Designating African American Heritage Sites
For many, the first step in starting a historic preservation project is to seek recognition of the property’s historic value. The gold standard is listing on the National Register of Historic Places. However, this process is not always straightforward, especially when it comes to certain types of landscapes. Cemeteries and churches, for example, both face high barriers to designation.These are also two of the most commonly surviving African American heritage sites and have tremendous historic and cultural significance.
Federal regulations specifically state that “ordinarily cemeteries” do not meet the criteria for listing on the National Register unless they meet additional requirements detailed in National Register Bulletin 41: Guidelines for Evaluating and Registering Cemeteries and Burial Places.
Listing African American churches on the National Register is also difficult. Sites must meet special rules for designating religious properties and have the necessary level of integrity required by the program. This is a challenge for structures that have been repaired, enlarged, and improved overtime.
Historically, many African American communities had limited economic resources and the most tangible remains are frequently cemeteries and churches. Though these places reveal a landscape of segregation, they also reflect strong spiritual, patriotic, and community values. Fortunately, there is growing recognition that preservation standards need to be adapted to reflect the special conditions of these cultural resources. It cannot happen soon enough.
| 
