I’m reminding folks of the Historic Preservation Symposium on May 27-28.
Chamber of commerce, county and city officials are encouraged to attend to learn about how historic preservation and recycling old buildings can contribute to your communities’ economic development by preserving character and good architecture.
Related to that there is a new edition of a book out that I wish I had had 10 years ago. It is an “all in one place†reference for those new to the idea of historic preservation – “Historic Preservation – An Introduction to its History Principles and Practice†(2nd Edition) by Norman Tyler.
It’s been my experience that the general public isn’t aware of the formal sense of historic preservation and if they are it is often immediately suspect because it is associated with possible extra costs plus restrictions on property rights and design. But the book discusses different perspectives and acknowledges different interpretations of how and what to preserve in adapting a community philosophy or policy.
The book is also a useful tool for learning about basic architectural styles. It discusses the distinction between preservation, rehabilitation, restoration, and reconstruction as well as tax credit possibilities and legalities involved.
When thinking of how to resist the temptation to immediately destroy old structures and cultural landscapes, the book provides basic facts about the process of recognizing historic places and preserving them. It provides a basis for considering alternative adaptive uses for property owners. Contact your local bookstore or ask the local library to purchase it.It would be a great review for the symposium.
Karen Prasse
President, League of Snohomish County Heritage Organizations
