Definition
A historic structure is a sub-category of a historic property recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, primarily in the United States. This designation includes buildings or various forms of structures like bridges, canals, mines, ships, and highways, which hold significant cultural or historical importance. The distinction is made to separate such structures from simple human shelters or residences.
Comparison: Historic Structure vs Historic Property
| Category | Historic Structure | Historic Property |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A specific structure with historical significance | A broader category that includes structures and sites |
| Examples | Bridges, mines, canals, ships, and highways | Historic buildings, battlefields, and cemeteries |
| Designation | Must meet specific criteria for National Register | Can be recognized for broader historical relevance |
| Preservation Goal | Focuses on preserving culturally significant structures | Aims at preserving entire historical areas or properties |
Examples
- Brooklyn Bridge: An iconic suspension bridge in New York City, linking Manhattan and Brooklyn, recognized for its engineering and historical significance.
- The Erie Canal: A 363-mile waterway that transformed trade and transportation in the 19th century, showcasing the impact of engineering on American expansion.
Related Terms
- National Register of Historic Places: A list maintained by the National Park Service recognizing historic buildings, districts, and sites worthy of preservation.
- Cultural Heritage: The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society.
- Landmark: A recognizable feature in the landscape that has historical significance.
Illustrative Diagram
graph TD;
A[Historic Property] --> B[Historic Structure];
A --> C[Historic Site];
B --> D[Bridges]
B --> E[Canals]
B --> F[Mines]
B --> G[Ships]
B --> H[Highways]
Humorous Insights & Fun Facts
- “Why did the historic structure break up with its partner? Because it found it boring and essential with no unique value!” 😄
- Did you know that there are over 2,600 national historic landmarks in the United States? If only they could collect rent! 🏛️🏠
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What qualifies a structure as a historic structure?
- It must be associated with significant historical events, individuals, or architectural styles, adhering to one of the National Register’s criteria.
-
Can a house be a historic structure?
- While houses can be recognized as historic properties, they usually don’t qualify as historic structures unless they have architectural significance or are linked to significant events or figures.
-
Who decides if a structure is historic?
- The National Park Service, along with state and local preservation officials, evaluates nominations to determine if they meet the criteria.
-
What is the importance of preserving historic structures?
- They embody cultural heritage and history, promoting education and appreciation for past generations while fostering tourism and community pride.
References for Further Study
- National Park Service: National Register of Historic Places
- “A Guide to the National Register of Historic Places” by National Park Service - A comprehensive resource for understanding historic designations.
Test Your Knowledge: Historic Structures Quiz
## What is a historic structure?
- [x] A building or structure recognized for its historical significance
- [ ] Any old building
- [ ] A structure designed after 1980
- [ ] A building with a ghost
> **Explanation:** A historic structure is not just any old building; it must have significant cultural or historical importance and be officially recognized!
## Can a bridge qualify as a historic structure?
- [x] Yes, if it meets specific criteria
- [ ] No, bridges are only functional
- [ ] Only if it has been painted recently
- [ ] Only if it's haunted
> **Explanation:** Bridges can be historic structures if they hold cultural or historical significance, even if they don’t have ghosts!
## What distinguishes a historic structure from a historic property?
- [x] Historic structures are specific, while properties can include multiple types or sites
- [ ] Historic structures are only buildings
- [ ] All historic properties are also structures
- [ ] There is no distinction
> **Explanation:** A historic structure is a specific category under the broader term historic property, which can encompass many forms and types.
## How many national historic landmarks are there in the U.S.?
- [ ] Over 1,000
- [x] Over 2,600
- [ ] Exactly 5,000
- [ ] I lost count!
> **Explanation:** There are more than 2,600 national historic landmarks recognized across the United States. Can you name one without googling?
## What would happen if no historic structures were preserved?
- [ ] We'd have more space for new developments
- [x] We would lose valuable cultural heritage and history
- [ ] Structures would randomly explode
- [ ] Nothing would change; it's just old stuff
> **Explanation:** If historic structures are not preserved, we would lose important connections to our cultural heritage and history, not just clutter!
## Which of the following is NOT a type of historic structure?
- [ ] Mines
- [ ] Canals
- [x] McMansions
- [ ] Bridges
> **Explanation:** McMansions might be large and flashy, but they lack the historical significance to be classified as historic structures.
## Who evaluates nominations for historic structures?
- [ ] The local newspaper
- [x] The National Park Service and state officials
- [ ] Bored historians
- [ ] Anyone with a smartphone
> **Explanation:** The National Park Service, along with state preservation officials, evaluates nominations for accuracy and significance.
## What is the primary goal of preserving historic structures?
- [ ] To charge high rents
- [x] To maintain cultural and historical relevance
- [ ] To use them as movie sets
- [ ] To decorate streets for Halloween
> **Explanation:** The main purpose is to maintain the cultural and historical relevance of significant structures, not just for Halloween decor!
## Can a ship be a historic structure?
- [x] Yes, if it has historical significance
- [ ] Only if it’s made of wood
- [ ] Only if it sinks
- [ ] Only if it’s been in a movie
> **Explanation:** Ships with historical significance are indeed eligible to be classified as historic structures, regardless if they sank or starred in films!
## Which category does a historic structure NOT belong to?
- [ ] Bridges
- [x] Holiday decorations
- [ ] Canals
- [ ] Historic sites
> **Explanation:** Holiday decorations don’t quite pack the cultural and historical punch needed to qualify as historic structures—unless they’re from the Victorian era!
Thank you for exploring the fascinating world of historic structures with a sprinkle of humor! Remember, preserving our past adds character to our future—just like aging cheese!🧀
