National Historic Landmarks | Agency of Commerce and Community Development (2024)

National Historic Landmarks are cultural properties designated by the Secretary of the Interior as being nationally significant. Acknowledged as among the nation's most significant historic places, these buildings, sites, districts, structures, and objects possess exceptional value or quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. The designation is an official recognition by the federal government of the significance of historic properties.

The nearly 2,600 properties designated (as of 2021) as National Historic Landmarks are the most significant places in American history that illustrate and commemorate our collective past, enabling an understanding of our national identity. National Historic Landmarks represent and interpret outstanding and tragic aspects of our history and culture. Through these resources, all Americans can better understand and appreciate broad trends and events, important persons, influential ideas, and valuable accomplishments that are significant in our national history.

Presently, there are eighteen National Historic Landmarks recognized in the State of Vermont. These landmarks convey the state’s history from early Native American settlement to the modern day. Included are iconic examples of architecture and engineering such as the Brown Covered Bridge, Rockingham Meetinghouse, and Round Church; sites critical to American history such as the Calvin Coolidge Homestead District, Mount Independence, and Justin Smith Morrill Homestead; and homes like Naulakha and the Robert Frost Farm where important pieces of literature were produced. Many of the eighteen National Historic Landmarks in Vermont are open to the public as museums and historic sites. Official copies of all National Historic Landmark nomination applications for properties in Vermont can be viewed in the state’s Online Resource Center (ORC).

Vermont’s National Historic Landmarks

As a passionate enthusiast and expert in American history and cultural heritage, my deep knowledge in the field allows me to shed light on the significance of National Historic Landmarks in the United States. The National Historic Landmarks program, overseen by the Secretary of the Interior, plays a pivotal role in preserving and commemorating the nation's most historically significant places. I can attest to the exceptional value and quality of these landmarks in illustrating and interpreting the rich heritage of the United States.

The evidence supporting the importance of National Historic Landmarks lies in their official designation by the federal government. The nearly 2,600 properties designated as of 2021 serve as a testament to the program's commitment to recognizing and preserving the most critical places in American history. This official recognition underscores the significance of these landmarks in shaping and defining our national identity.

The article specifically mentions eighteen National Historic Landmarks in the State of Vermont, showcasing the state's history from early Native American settlements to the modern day. These landmarks include iconic examples of architecture and engineering, such as the Brown Covered Bridge, Rockingham Meetinghouse, and Round Church. Additionally, sites critical to American history, such as the Calvin Coolidge Homestead District, Mount Independence, and Justin Smith Morrill Homestead, are highlighted.

The diverse range of landmarks in Vermont also includes homes like Naulakha and the Robert Frost Farm, where important pieces of literature were produced. Each of these landmarks contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the state's history and cultural significance. Many of these sites are open to the public, functioning as museums and historic sites, allowing all Americans to better understand and appreciate the broad trends, events, important persons, influential ideas, and valuable accomplishments that have shaped the nation's history.

The inclusion of specific details, such as the dates of designation and the counties in which these landmarks are located, adds depth to the narrative. For example, the Justin Smith Morrill Homestead in Strafford, Orange County, was designated on September 22, 1960, making it one of the earliest National Historic Landmarks in Vermont. This level of detail further underscores the historical and cultural significance of these landmarks.

Moreover, the article mentions the availability of official copies of all National Historic Landmark nomination applications for properties in Vermont in the state's Online Resource Center (ORC). This information not only highlights the transparency and accessibility of the designation process but also emphasizes the commitment to documentation and preservation.

In conclusion, the National Historic Landmarks in Vermont, as outlined in the article, are a tangible and integral part of the nation's history. Their diverse range showcases the depth of American heritage, and the evidence of their designation and ongoing preservation efforts underscores their importance in preserving and sharing the nation's collective past.