National Historic Landmark
A
National Historic Landmark (NHL) is a
building,
district,
site,
structure, or object, almost always within the
United States, officially recognized for its historical significance. Landmarks are designated by the
Secretary of the Interior because they are:
*Sites where events of national historical significance occurred;
*Places where prominent Americans lived or worked;
*Icons of ideals that shaped the nation;
*Outstanding examples of design or construction;
*Places characterizing a way of life; or
*Archeological sites able to yield information.
On
October 9,
1960, 92 properties were announced as designated NHLs by Secretary
Fred Andrew Seaton. The first of these was a political nomination,
Sergeant Floyd Grave and Monument in
Sioux City, Iowa. It was officially designated on June 30 of that year, but for various reasons the public announcement of the first several NHLs was delayed.
More than half of the National Historic Landmarks are
privately owned. There are currently fewer than 2500 NHLs. The National Historic Landmarks Program relies on suggestions for new designations from the
National Park Service, which also assists in maintaining the
landmarks. A friends group of owners and managers, the National Historic Landmark Stewards Association, also works to preserve, protect and promote National Historic Landmarks.
If not already listed on the
National Register of Historic Places, an NHL is automatically added to the Register upon designation. About three percent of Register listings are NHLs.
*
List of National Historic Landmarks by state*
National Natural Landmark*
Listed building, a similar designation in the
UK* Official website:
National Historic Landmark Program**
A History of the NHL Program* 36 CFR Part 65
