National Historic Landmarks

 

They have been called irreplaceable treasures, the anchors of their communities and the crown jewels of American history, The Secretary of the Interior has determined them to be some of our nation's most significant architectural, historical or cultural sites. They are our National Historic Landmarks. In September 1971, Mr. and Mrs. Seth Huntley, then the owners of the William Floyd House, received a long awaited letter from the United States Department of the Interior. The first paragraph read " We are pleased to inform you that the General William Floyd House, described briefly in the enclosure, has been found to possess national significance in commemorating the history of the United States, and is thus eligible for designation as a National Historic Landmark." With that announcement and the Huntley's acceptance, the General William Floyd House became what is now one of only 2,300 nationally significant historical sites.
"In 1935, the U.S. Congress charged the Department of the Interior with the responsibility for designating nationally significant historic sites, buildings and objects, and promoting their preservation for the inspiration and benefit of the people of the United States. The National Historic Landmarks Program was established to identify and protect places possessing exceptional value in illustrating the nation's history. Only 3% of properties listed on the National Register are designated as National Historic Landmarks." National Historic Landmarks are the beacons that define our nation's historic trail and help illuminate the common heritage we all share as Americans. They not only help us understand where we started, where we are, and how we got here, but who we are and what we believe. National Historic Landmarks are the physical, tangible reminders that help bond us together as Americans and define who we are.