Nominations Open for List of Endangered Historic Sites

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is accepting nominations for its 2001 list of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places. Every year, the National Trust spotlights 11 notable historic places threatened by neglect, deterioration, lack of maintenance, insufficient funds, inappropriate development or insensitive public policy.

The nomination deadline is Jan. 19. The list will be announced June 25.

“Since 1988, the list has focused attention on the threats facing America’s historic treasures,” said National Trust President Richard Moe. “Until this year, no listed site had been lost. But the demolition of the historic Mapes Hotel in Reno last January reminded us that we must remain vigilant in our fight to save our nation’s heritage. Sprawl, neglect, weather and time still threaten these places, and it is up to us to preserve them for future generations.”

Since 1988, America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places has identified more than 100 threatened one-of-a-kind historic treasures. While a listing does not ensure the protection of a site or guarantee funding, the designation has been a powerful tool for raising awareness and rallying resources to save threatened sites from every region of the country. A wide range of historic places can be nominated, including ships, towns, homes, Native American sites, national parks, sports arenas, islands, bridges--even entire states.

Most sites have been saved from threats from man, nature and neglect. The oldest surviving McDonald’s, in Downey, was listed in 1994 because McDonald’s planned to demolish it. Faced with widespread public support for preservation, McDonald’s reversed its decision and opted instead to restore it. The 1953 restaurant has reopened, winning a National Trust Preservation Honor Award.

For a nomination form, call (202) 588-6141, download the form at https://www.nationaltrust.org or call the trust’s fax-on-demand service at (202) 588-6444 and select document No. 7001.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to protecting the irreplaceable.