Historic Preservation

Description of the Indicator
This indicator describes the number of historic landmarks in the tri-county area and the state, and the amount of district and above-ground resources available. Several types of resources relate to historic preservation. Historical markers are present at locations to tell stories of notable people, places, events, and innovations. Above-ground resources include buildings, structures, or sites of historic significance. District resources can consist of larger areas of significance such as downtowns, neighborhoods, farms, industrial areas, and landscapes.

Why is it important?
Preserving historic landmarks allows a region to protect its natural history, supplement educational and cultural institutions, and increase local tourism.

How is the region performing?
There are currently 135 historical markers in the four counties, which comprise approximately five percent of all historical markers located in the Commonwealth. The four-county region also has a combined total of 9,011 above-ground resources, which hold a notable percentage of the statewide total of these historic buildings or sites. Finally, the four-county region has 229 district resources, which comprises five percent of the state’s total of these larger areas of historical significance.