Historic Preservation – Federal Enactments

American Antiquities Act of 1906

The American Antiquities Act of 1906 was the first major step in a mission to preserve America’s cultural heritage. The Act provides for fines and the imprisonment of those who harm, destroy, excavate, or take any historic ruin or monument or object of antiquity located on federal land. The President of the United States is given authorization to declare historic landmarks, structures, and objects to be national monuments. Finally, the Act allows for permissions to be granted to members of the archeological, scientific, and educational communities for the examination, excavation, and gathering of the historic sites or objects in the interest of preservation.

Historic Sites Act of 1935

In the Historic Sites Act of 1935, Congress declared it a national policy to preserve the historic sites, buildings, and objects that hold special significance to the American people. The Secretary of the Interior, through the National Park Service, was granted the power to engage in various activities for the study, acquisition, and preservation of such sites, buildings, and objects.

Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979

The Archeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 aimed to preserve archeological resources and sites on public lands and Indian lands. Preservation as an “archeological resource” is limited to specified items that are at least 100 years old. Mainly, the Act seeks to prevent the looting, destruction, and defacement of archeological resources, and provides for criminal and civil sanctions for those engaging in such violative activities.

National Historic Preservation Act

In recognition of America’s cultural roots, and the need to preserve for posterity the historical resources reflecting America’s heritage, the National Historic Preservation Act created a system to identify historical properties and ensure their preservation through awareness of their status as such. The Act created the National Register of Historic Places whereby significant historical properties were recognized as national landmarks and catalogued. Having been so catalogued, an advisory council was created to monitor and comment on the activities of federal agencies and their effect on the registered properties. Additionally, preservation responsibilities were allocated to the states by the Act through authorized state historic preservation systems.

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

One of the specified goals of the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 is to preserve significant historical, cultural, and natural aspects of American heritage. A prominent feature of the Act is its method of accountability for federal actions. Per the Act, appropriate federal officials are required to consult with any federal agency that has jurisdiction or special expertise with respect to an environmental impact caused by the federal action.

:. Back

For more information, or to make an appointment, please call our office.

Mikel J. Hoffman, Attorney At Law
193 E. Main Street
Babylon, NY 11702
Phone: (631) 661-2121
Fax: (631) 661-8854
Contact Us Form | Directions | Construction Law Newsletter

Or visit our Law Firm Overview or Legal Practice Areas page, to learn more about how we can help meet your legal needs.