Historic Preservation?

A couple of years ago, I took a class on Historic Preservation. One of the interesting ideas brought up by the teacher was preserving mid-century modern buildings as they age. As time goes by, those buildings from the 50s and 60s become eligible for historic labels.



It really got me thinking about preservation. While most people understand preserving a Victorian beauty, and appreciate the significance of its architecture chances are the average person scoffs at preserving something more modest and more recent.


There has even been a movement afoot to preserve Quonset Huts! throughout the US, intended to be quick and they are scattered easy shelter for GIs but now they house families, storefronts, churches and even a theater in lovely Carmel, California. There is a debate about tearing it down or preserving it. Quonset Huts do not meet the National Historic Register qualification of ‘integrity of place’ because they were built one place (here in RI!) and moved to other locations. But people throughout the US are trying to get them named to the local historic districts in their areas.

What about preserving the beautiful shimmering glass and steel buildings of the 50s? This photo shows one scheduled to be demolished! Built in the 50s as a Gunner Mate’s School in Great Lakes by renowned architects Skidmore, Owings & Merrill.

Mid century buildings do not always have the readily apparent appeal and striking qualities most agree are worth saving.

These buildings require a whole new set of skills other than what we are familiar with – artisans who work with wood and plaster, the rare person who can fix a slate roof, those who can recreate intricate details in floors and banisters. Who will work on the steel and glass beauties? Will anyone even care?

How about a strip mall? The little ranch house? All have their place in architectural history.