Preservation Horizons 2004: A Plan for Historic Preservation in Missouri

Introduction: "Preservation of Missouri's heritage has been a concern of Missourians since the state was formed. As early as the 1840s, citizens spoke out against the destruction of the historic Auguste Chouteau Mansion in St. Louis. With the Missouri Centennial Statehood Celebration of 1921, interest in preserving the state's heritage was renewed. However, it was not until the passage of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 that the preservation movement came of age in Missouri and nationally. The 1966 law set up a framework of funding and support for state historic preservation offices throughout the country and encouraged states to establish ongoing programs to foster identification, evaluation, registration, and protection of cultural resources of national, state and local significance. Missouri was one of the first states in the nation to take advantage of this program, receiving federal approval for the formation of a State Historic Preservation Office in 1968. Since 1968, preservation activities in Missouri have increase dramatically. The state has been able to assist in that effort by providing programs, federal grant funds and technical assistance to Missouri citizens. However, the efforts of the state have been exceeded by the efforts of the Missouri preservation community - organizations, local governments and individuals that have strengthened and shaped the statewide preservation movement. The success of this preservation partnership is evidenced throughout Missouri by the number of properties placed in the National Register of Historic Places, the number of buildings that have been rehabilitated, and the growing number of tourists that seek out historic sites. However, despite laudable successes, preservationists face many challenges in the 21st century, including expanding popular support for preservation, increasing the number of historic properties, cultural landscapes and archaeological resources assured protection, and seeking creative means to fund preservation activities. To meet these challenges, preservationists need to expand and strengthen partnerships and work together to achieve common preservation goals. This plan is written to identify and articulate the dreams of Missourians for the future historic preservation in our state." Project funding was provided in part by a Historic Preservation Fund grant to Missouri State Historic Preservation Office, Department of Natural Resources, administered by the State, Tribal, Local Plans and Grants division, National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior.

Preservation Horizons 2004: A Plan for Historic Preservation in Missouri

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