What is Historic Preservation?

Historic sites and structures provide important information about people and events. Physical places provide a link to the past that can never be replaced. Historic preservation works to save buildings, sites, structures, and objects so these vital links will not be lost. South Dakota’s prehistoric and historic places are saved for different reasons.
These include:

Identity and Education: Historic places tell us where, how, and why people lived. They help define who we are as a community. Knowledge of these places provides insight for the future.

Civic Pride and quality of life: Prehistoric and historic places serve as community landmarks and sources of pride. Modern buildings lack the variety of the materials and the details that went into older structures. Many people enjoy learning, working, and living in historic buildings.

Recycling: Historic Preservation recycles old places. Tearing down an old building wastes the materials and energy that went into constructing the building in the first place. Those resources are saved through preservation.

Aesthetics and Economics: Well-preserved places enhance a community’s appearance. In turn, attractive communities draw and sustain new businesses and residents. Tourism increases in such places as well. Saving old places helps South Dakota towns survive and prosper.

This exhibition invites you to explore and understand historic preservation in South Dakota. We hope this exhibit inspires you to visit historic properties in your neighborhood, community, and state.

Map of Featured Properties