What qualifies a property for the Historic Register?

The Aberdeen Historic Register recognizes building, structure, site, object or district that is significantly associated with:

  • Community
    • Archaeology
    • Architecture
    • Cultural Heritage
    • Engineering
    • History
  • If it has integrity
  • Is at least 50 years old
  • Is of lesser age and has exceptional importance

It will also be recognized if it falls in at least two of the following categories:

  • Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of national, state of local history.
  • Embodies the distinctive architectural characteristics of a type, period, style, or method of design or construction, or represents a significant and distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction.
  • An outstanding work of a designer, builder, or architect who has made a substantial contribution to the art.
  • Exemplifies or reflects special elements of the city's history such as:
    • Aesthetic
    • Architectural 
    • Cultural
    • Economic
    • Engineering
    • Political
  • Associated with the lives of persons significant in national, state or local history.
  • Has yielded or may be likely to yield important archaeological information related to history or prehistory.
  • A building or structure removed from its original location but which is significant primarily for architectural value, or which is the only surviving structure significantly associated with a historic person or event.
  • Is a birthplace or grave of a historical figure of outstanding importance and is the only surviving structure or site associated with that person.
  • A cemetery, which derives its primary significance from age, from distinctive design features, or from association with historic events, or cultural patterns.
  • A reconstructed building that has been executed in a historically accurate manner on the original site.
  • A creative and unique example of folk architecture and design created by persons not formally trained in the architectural design professions, and which does not fit into formal architectural or historical categories.

Show All Answers

1. What is the Aberdeen Historic Register?
2. What qualifies a property for the Historic Register?
3. What is the process for designation?
4. What are the benefits of Register placement?
5. What is not affected by placement and what is not reviewed?
6. What buildings are eligible?
7. What are the requirements after approval?
8. What is the special valuation review procedure?
9. What are the submittal requirements for Aberdeen Historic Tax Applications?
10. What is the criteria for review by the commission?
11. Now that I am listed on the Historic Register what do I need to know about the future repairs, upgrades, and additions to my home or building?
12. What do I do now? My property is listed on the Historic Register and it needs to be demolished.
13. What if I do not agree with the commission’s findings?