Historic preservation can preserve and conserve historically significant structures such as buildings. There are many aspects involved in historic preservation; these include history, design, and planning. A Historic Preservation Masters can equip someone to work in this field, and contribute greatly to communities, and society. A few of the benefits of historic preservation are further explored below.
Cultural and Historic Significance
Many buildings, landscapes, and structures have cultural and historical significance. Perhaps a major event happened there, a movement started there, a famous artist resided there, or the house was the first to be built along a Main Street. The possible reasons for the significance of a site are numerous, and this importance may be at community level, or even national level. Keeping important landmarks alive is allowing history to be remembered and enjoyed by future generations. Tourists can also travel to visit such landmarks and share in the story.
Community Strengthening and Development
Opting to demolish dilapidated historically significant building can bring a sense of loss to a community. Historic preservation can strengthen a community by revamping a structure that is part of the identity of that community. When a preservation project takes place, it is common for some form of community engagement to be initiated.
Historic preservation can also develop communities through an economic boost. This can be in the form of tourist activity and job creation. Sustainable development of a site also allows the site to be improved, without changing its identifying features. Such improvements include better ventilation and lighting systems, as well as stronger and more suitable building materials, and support.
Studying historic preservation is a multi-faceted endeavor that allows one to connect with the community and be part of some practical preservation projects.
To find information on a Historic Preservation Masters, contact the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. You can visit them online at http://www.saic.edu/.
