Over the past year, the Preservation Resource Center of New Orleans has been fortunate to work with several talented students and recent graduates serving internships and fulfilling their practicum projects. We asked each of them what historic preservation means to them.
“Many perceive historic preservation as simply safeguarding older structures, yet its essence extends far beyond mere buildings. It embodies a dedication not only to preserving physical structures but also to safeguarding our collective memory and cultural identity. At its core, historic preservation aims to ensure that future generations can intimately experience and learn from the tangible remnants of our past. This vital endeavor not only safeguards our built heritage but also enriches our understanding of history, architecture, and the diverse cultures that have shaped our society over time. Historic preservation serves as a bridge connecting the past with the present, ensuring that our rich history remains vibrant and accessible for generations to come.”
“Historic preservation allows for the continued maintenance of communities to help create senses of place and belonging. It offers opportunities for cultural identities to be recognized through the histories that are salvaged by structures that offer significance. Through the maintenance of structures and landmarks that offer cultural significance, historic preservation alludes to the possibility that permanence may exist within a world that is fully dynamic and constantly changing.”
“To me, historic preservation means being a steward of history, cultural memory and regionalisms that are often forgotten. Preservation is so much more than simply preventing the demolition of old buildings. It is a practice that keeps vernacular architectural traditions alive; it helps to tell the stories of, and contextualize, people — famous or not — throughout history.Without historic preservation, there would be far less of a unique sense of place in cities and towns across the United States, and even the world.”
“To me, historic preservation means allowing the City of New Orleans to flourish in a new era without sacrificing any of the wonderful historic buildings and sites that make our city so special. Initially, I thought historic preservation was just about maintaining the exterior appearance of New Orleans’ seemingly unlimited supply of significant architecture. But I am so grateful that my time with the PRC taught me that it is much more than that. I have now learned that historic preservation is really about finding innovative new ways to allow New Orleans to move into the future while simultaneously protecting its past, a daunting task that the PRC tirelessly tackles daily.”
