11 Most Endangered: Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Criteria for Inclusion of a Site on the List?
The National Trust for Historic Preservation has three primary criteria for inclusion on the list of America's 11 Most Endangered Places:
- Significance
- Urgency
- Potential Solutions
1. Significance
Significance is the architectural, artistic, and/or historic importance of a site within its cultural, social, or geographical context. The places on the 11 Most list need not be famous, but they must be significant within their own cultural context and illustrate important issues in preservation. Each place is judged within its context. Some previous listings are of undisputed national significance, while others have been included for their role in a unique cultural tradition, for their rare architectural design, or as the last surviving example of a style or building type.
2. Urgency
Urgency is defined as the need for immediate action to stop or reverse serious threats. In previous years, places representing all stages of physical deterioration or unfavorable conditions have been listed, including those at which:
- A disaster has occurred, such as a natural catastrophe or intentional destruction;
- A disaster is imminent, either because of lack of preservation or the planned introduction of harmful factors such as development;
- A pattern of destruction - such as neglect, erosion, or exposure to the elements - is evident and will, if not reversed inevitably lead to loss;
- A longer-range danger exists that can be averted by proper planning or minimal but timely intervention.
3. Potential Solutions
Potential solutions are evaluated according to likelihood that the threats to the place can be removed. Nominators should explain potential solutions that would eliminate or lessen the threat(s) in the short- and/or long-term.
How do I nominate a site?
The 2010 nomination form and guidelines will be available in early fall of 2009. Check back then for details. Contact your National Trust for Historic Preservation Regional Office and Joelle Schatz at 11most@nthp.org with additional questions.
How does the process work?
1. Contact Joelle Schatz, Special Projects Coordinator, at 11most@nthp.org and our Regional Office staff to determine if you should nominate your site.
2. When they are available early in fall of 2009, read the Nomination Guidelines, complete the Nomination Form, and submit supporting materials.
3. Nominations are sorted and reviewed by an internal committee. Those not selected will receive a letter.
