Citizens can help preserve historic landmarks





Is there room in America’s future for both smaller cell phones and the country’s largest ball of twine? Fortunately, the answer is yes. Americana still seems to be near and dear to many people’s hearts, despite their increased interest in gadgets and technology.


Yet studies show that America’s national parks are receiving only two-thirds of the funding they need to stay in good shape. Even more endangered are the countless smaller landmarks, such as the unusual patriotic icons that capture America’s spirit, like Route 66 or the 42-foot-tall Uncle Sam statue in Michigan.


The good news is that Americans across the country have been pitching in to help save these treasures, but preservationists say more work still needs to be done. If you want to help keep America looking its best, try these tips:


•Start at Home: Try teaching the importance of history and preservation to your kids by showing them not just monuments but the places and icons that hold personal memories in your life.


•Read All About It: Nearby locales may be steeped in history you don’t even know. Try to find out. Almost every community has a book about its history and they’re usually available at local libraries.


•Shop and Save: Many privately owned stores and boutiques are housed in historic buildings. By supporting these business owners you could be saving a piece of history.


•Be on the Lookout: When you see a landmark that looks like it needs to be rescued, tell someone. There are several organizations that recognize the importance of preserving America.


For example, Hampton Hotels’ Save-A-Landmark Program has helped restore everything from the "See Rock City" historic barn in Tennessee to the National Monument to the Forefathers’ historic walkway in Plymouth, Mass..


The hotel chain encourages people to submit landmark preservation recommendations online at www.hamptonlandmarks.com. Submissions can also be mailed to Save-A-Landmark, 8730 Sunset Blvd., Fifth Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90069. It’s an easy way to help make a difference.


•Get Involved: Try joining an organization (or two) dedicated to preservation. A good place to start is the National Trust for Historic Preservation, where you can become a member online and even find out about preservation groups and projects nearby.


This story provided by North American Precis Syndicate, Inc.



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