National Significance

While many historic places are important locally or on a state or regional level, a few have meaning for most Americans. Places that "possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating and interpreting the heritage of the United States" are designated National Historic Landmarks. They illuminate our rich and complex national story that spans more than 10,000 years, from the arrival of the ancient hunters who crossed into Alaska from Asia to the exploration of outer space. The story is there to be told in Presidential homes, on stretches of arctic tundra, in our

William Tipton's Store-post office-stable in New Mexico. Photo courtesy New Mexico SHPO.

In 1935, the U.S. Congress charged the Department of the Interior with the responsibility for designating nationally significant historic sites, buildings, and objects and promoting their preservation for the inspiration and benefit of the people of the United States. The National Historic Landmarks program was established to identify and protect places possessing exceptional value in illustrating the nation's heritage. Only 3% of properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places are designated as National Historic Landmarks. Their preservation is an irreplaceable legacy to us and future generations.

Through the combined efforts of the National Historic Landmarks Survey and the National Historic Landmarks Assistance Initiative, the National Park Service administers the National Historic Landmarks program for the Secretary of the Interior. It is a cooperative endeavor of government agencies, professionals, and independent organizations sharing knowledge with the Service and working jointly to identify and preserve National Historic Landmarks.

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