The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties that possess historical or architectural significance within the state. When a property is listed on the IHSSI, it signifies that it has undergone a preliminary evaluation of its cultural heritage value. However, inclusion on the IHSSI does not automatically confer legal protection or designation under Indiana’s historic preservation statutes. Legal protections and formal designations, such as listing on the National Register of Historic Places or designation as a local landmark, require a separate nomination and approval process. The IHSSI serves as a foundational step, indicating potential eligibility for further consideration and protection, but it is not a regulatory mechanism in itself. Therefore, a property listed on the IHSSI, while recognized for its heritage value, is not legally mandated to be preserved from demolition or alteration solely based on that listing. Legal safeguards are activated through subsequent, formal designation processes.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey of historic properties, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate properties that may possess historical or architectural significance. Properties are assessed based on established criteria for significance, often related to their association with important historical events or persons, or their embodiment of distinctive architectural styles or construction methods. Inclusion in the IHSSI does not automatically confer legal protection but serves as a crucial step in the process of recognizing and potentially preserving cultural heritage. The inventory is a dynamic resource, updated periodically to reflect new research and discoveries. It informs various preservation planning activities, including the nomination of properties to the National Register of Historic Places and the development of local historic preservation ordinances in Indiana. The process involves field surveys, archival research, and the application of professional standards for historic property evaluation. The inventory’s data is essential for understanding the state’s built environment and for making informed decisions about its future.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties across Indiana. The inventory serves as a foundational tool for historic preservation planning, informing decisions regarding eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places and guiding state and local preservation efforts. Properties are assessed based on established criteria for significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, and culture, and their ability to retain the qualities that convey that significance. The process involves field surveys, archival research, and evaluation against these criteria, often culminating in the creation of detailed inventory forms that become part of the state’s official record. This systematic documentation is crucial for understanding the state’s built heritage and for implementing effective preservation strategies under Indiana law, such as those related to state-funded projects impacting historic sites.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, often referred to as the state inventory, serves as a crucial tool for identifying, documenting, and evaluating properties that possess historical or architectural significance within Indiana. Its primary purpose is to create a comprehensive record of the state’s cultural heritage. While the inventory itself does not confer legal protection, it is a foundational element for various preservation initiatives. Inclusion on the inventory can inform decisions regarding potential eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, which does offer federal protections and potential tax incentives. Furthermore, the inventory data is frequently utilized by state and local agencies, including the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, when undertaking projects that might affect historic properties. The process of inventorying involves detailed research, site visits, and the application of established architectural and historical evaluation criteria. It is a dynamic process, with new properties being added and existing ones re-evaluated over time. The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory is not a regulatory list that automatically triggers review for all private actions, but rather an informational and evaluative resource that supports informed decision-making in cultural resource management. The concept of “designation” typically refers to a more formal legal process, such as listing on the National Register or a local historic landmark designation, which carries specific regulatory implications. The inventory, in contrast, is a survey and documentation effort.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a comprehensive survey of historic properties throughout the state, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate properties that possess historical, architectural, or archaeological significance. This inventory serves as a crucial tool for historic preservation planning, informing decisions regarding nominations to the National Register of Historic Places, the development of preservation strategies, and the administration of state and federal historic preservation tax incentives. While the IHSSI itself does not confer legal protection, the information it contains is foundational for understanding a property’s potential significance and eligibility for various preservation programs and regulatory reviews. Properties listed on the IHSSI are often considered for further evaluation for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places, which does provide a level of federal recognition and can influence decisions on federally funded or permitted projects affecting those properties. Furthermore, the inventory assists in identifying properties that may qualify for state-level preservation incentives or protections under Indiana law, such as those related to demolition review or rehabilitation grants. Therefore, its role is primarily informational and evaluative, guiding subsequent preservation actions rather than enacting direct legal safeguards.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (HSSI) is a crucial tool for cultural heritage preservation in the state. Its primary purpose is to systematically identify, document, and evaluate historic properties across Indiana. This inventory serves as a foundational resource for various preservation activities, including eligibility assessments for the National Register of Historic Places, the development of local historic preservation ordinances, and the prioritization of funding for restoration projects. Unlike a mere catalog of old buildings, the HSSI employs specific criteria to assess the historical significance, architectural integrity, and physical condition of sites and structures. The process involves trained historians and architectural historians who conduct field surveys, research historical records, and apply established evaluation standards. The resulting documentation, often including photographs and detailed narratives, provides an objective basis for understanding the state’s built heritage. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, oversees this initiative, ensuring its consistency and adherence to national standards. The inventory is dynamic, with ongoing updates and additions reflecting new research and discoveries. The legal framework governing the HSSI, while not a direct regulatory mechanism in itself, underpins its importance by providing the data necessary for informed decision-making under various state and federal preservation laws. The systematic approach ensures that preservation efforts are data-driven and focused on properties with demonstrable historical and architectural merit, contributing to the long-term stewardship of Indiana’s cultural landscape.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (HSSI) is a program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to systematically identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout the state. This process involves field surveys conducted by trained professionals who assess the architectural and historical significance of buildings, sites, and structures. The information gathered is crucial for various aspects of cultural heritage management, including eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places, state landmark designation, and informing preservation planning efforts. The inventory serves as a foundational tool for understanding Indiana’s built environment and its historical evolution. Its creation and maintenance are guided by state statutes and federal guidelines for historic preservation. The inventory is not a regulatory tool itself, but rather an informational resource that supports preservation initiatives and decision-making.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide program managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties across the state. Properties are assessed based on established National Register of Historic Places criteria, which consider significance in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture, and their ability to convey that significance. The inventory process involves field surveys conducted by trained professionals who examine architectural style, historical associations, integrity of design, setting, materials, workmanship, and feeling. Properties are assigned a status within the inventory, such as “eligible for the National Register,” “listed on the National Register,” or “not eligible.” This documentation is crucial for informing preservation planning, land use decisions, and the eligibility for federal and state preservation tax credits or grants. The inventory is a dynamic resource, updated as new research emerges or as properties are altered or demolished. The question tests the understanding of the fundamental purpose and criteria used in the IHSSI, a core component of Indiana’s cultural heritage preservation framework.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties that may possess historical or architectural significance within the state. When a property is listed on the IHSSI, it signifies that it has undergone a preliminary assessment and has been deemed potentially eligible for further consideration under Indiana’s cultural heritage laws. This inventory serves as a foundational step in the preservation process, informing decisions about development, land use, and potential nominations to national registers. The process involves a systematic survey, often conducted by qualified historians or architectural historians, who evaluate a property’s age, architectural style, integrity of design, setting, and association with significant historical events or persons. Inclusion on the IHSSI does not automatically confer legal protection but rather flags the property for potential future designation and review under statutes like the Indiana Historic Preservation Act (IC 14-21-1). This act outlines procedures for reviewing projects that might affect historic properties, particularly those undertaken by state agencies or involving state funding. Therefore, a property being on the IHSSI indicates it has met initial criteria for historical significance, making it a candidate for enhanced review and potential preservation efforts under state law.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (HSSI) is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties that possess architectural or historical significance within the state. When a property is identified as potentially significant, a formal evaluation process ensues. This process typically involves a review by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). The DHPA uses established criteria, often aligned with the National Register of Historic Places criteria for evaluation, to determine if a site meets the threshold for significance. These criteria generally consider the property’s association with events or persons significant to the broad patterns of history, its embodiment of the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or its potential to yield important information in history or prehistory. The inventory itself is not a regulatory mechanism that automatically confers legal protection; rather, it serves as a foundational step for potential future nominations to the National Register of Historic Places or for consideration in state-level preservation planning and grant programs. Therefore, while inclusion in the HSSI signifies a documented potential for significance, it does not grant immediate legal protections against demolition or alteration. Legal protections typically arise from subsequent designations, such as listing on the National Register of Historic Places, or from specific local ordinances or state review processes triggered by undertakings affecting historic properties. The primary purpose of the HSSI is documentation and identification to inform preservation efforts.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, mandated by IC 14-21-1-14, requires the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to maintain a comprehensive inventory of historic sites and structures within the state. This inventory serves as a foundational document for various preservation efforts, including eligibility assessments for the National Register of Historic Places and the identification of properties for potential state-level recognition and protection. When a property is nominated for inclusion in this inventory, the process typically involves a thorough evaluation of its historical significance, architectural integrity, and association with important events or persons. The designation itself, while not imposing immediate legal restrictions on private property owners in the same way as a local historic district ordinance or a specific preservation covenant, signifies official recognition of the property’s cultural value. This recognition can facilitate access to preservation grants and tax incentives, and it informs state and federal agency project reviews under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, ensuring that undertakings affecting the property consider its historic character. Therefore, while the inventory is primarily an informational and evaluative tool, its implications for property owners are tied to the potential benefits and the procedural considerations it introduces for future development or alteration projects that might involve federal funding or permitting, or that impact state-owned historic properties. The core function is documentation and recognition, with indirect effects on property use and management.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a program managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary function is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout the state. This inventory serves as a foundational tool for historic preservation efforts, informing decisions regarding eligibility for the National Register of Historic Places and guiding state and local preservation initiatives. The process involves systematic surveys, often conducted by trained professionals, to record architectural, historical, and archaeological significance. The information gathered is crucial for planning, development review, and the allocation of preservation resources. The Indiana Landmarks Preservation Act, while a significant piece of legislation, establishes the framework for preservation but does not directly detail the operational methodology of the IHSSI. Similarly, the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 provides a federal context for preservation, including the National Register, but the IHSSI is Indiana’s specific implementation of state-level inventorying. The Indiana State Museum’s role is primarily in exhibition and collection, not the systematic field documentation of historic sites. Therefore, the IHSSI is the direct mechanism for this type of statewide documentation.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout Indiana, contributing to the state’s historic preservation planning efforts. The inventory serves as a foundational tool for understanding the state’s built heritage. Properties listed in the IHSSI are not automatically protected by federal or state law; rather, the inventory informs decisions about eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and for potential state and federal preservation incentives. The process of surveying involves trained historians and architectural historians who assess properties based on established criteria for historical significance and architectural integrity. This systematic documentation allows for a comprehensive understanding of the state’s architectural and historical development, informing land use planning, environmental reviews under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and the development of preservation strategies. The IHSSI is a crucial component of Indiana’s approach to cultural resource management, ensuring that the state’s historical fabric is understood and considered in contemporary development.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout Indiana. Properties are assessed based on their architectural and historical significance, often in relation to their potential eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. The inventory process involves field surveys, research, and the creation of detailed records for each identified property. This systematic approach helps in understanding the state’s built heritage, informing preservation planning, and guiding decisions regarding development and land use that may impact historic resources. The inventory is a foundational tool for the state’s historic preservation efforts, providing a comprehensive overview of Indiana’s architectural and historical landscape. It is not a regulatory mechanism in itself but serves as a critical data source for various preservation initiatives, including grant applications, environmental reviews, and public awareness programs. The information gathered is publicly accessible and is vital for anyone involved in historic preservation in Indiana.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a crucial tool for identifying, documenting, and evaluating historic properties across the state. Its primary purpose is to create a comprehensive database that informs preservation planning, development review, and public awareness. The process involves field surveys conducted by trained professionals who assess a property’s architectural integrity, historical significance, and potential eligibility for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. This systematic inventory helps state and local governments make informed decisions regarding land use and development, ensuring that cultural resources are considered. The IHSSI is not a regulatory mechanism itself, meaning it does not automatically impose restrictions on property owners. Instead, it serves as an advisory resource. While the inventory can lead to nominations for historic designation, which do carry legal protections, the inventory itself is a documentation and evaluation process. Therefore, its direct impact on private property rights is indirect, stemming from subsequent regulatory actions or voluntary preservation efforts informed by the inventory’s findings. The inventory’s existence and the data it contains are foundational for implementing various preservation programs and policies within Indiana, ensuring that the state’s rich cultural heritage is systematically understood and considered in contemporary decision-making.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey of historic properties, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate properties that possess architectural, historical, or archaeological significance. Properties listed on the IHSSI are not automatically protected under state or federal law, but this designation is a crucial first step in the nomination process for listing on the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) or for receiving state-level designations. The survey data informs preservation planning, grant eligibility, and potential regulatory review for projects impacting historic resources. While the IHSSI aims for comprehensive coverage, it is an ongoing effort, and its findings are advisory in nature for private property owners. However, for public projects or projects receiving public funding or permits, the information gathered through the IHSSI and other DHPA reviews can trigger compliance requirements under Indiana Code 14-21-1 and related federal statutes like Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, necessitating consultation and mitigation to avoid adverse effects on significant historic properties. Therefore, a property’s inclusion on the IHSSI signifies its recognized potential significance and is a key indicator for further preservation consideration and legal review processes.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a crucial tool for documenting and assessing the state’s cultural heritage. When a property is nominated for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA) plays a central role in the evaluation process. The DHPA is responsible for conducting the necessary research and documentation to determine if the property meets the criteria for listing. This involves a thorough review of the property’s historical associations, architectural significance, and integrity of setting, location, design, materials, workmanship, and feeling. While local historical societies and review boards may offer recommendations or conduct preliminary surveys, the ultimate determination regarding National Register eligibility, as it pertains to state-level review within Indiana’s framework, rests with the DHPA. The Indiana Historic Preservation Review Board provides an additional layer of state-level review and recommendation before forwarding nominations to the National Park Service. However, the initial comprehensive survey and technical assessment for nomination purposes are primarily an internal DHPA function.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (HSSI) is a comprehensive survey of historic properties across the state, mandated by state law and often administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. The primary purpose of the HSSI is to identify, document, and evaluate properties that may possess architectural, historical, or archaeological significance. This inventory serves as a foundational tool for various cultural heritage management activities, including: eligibility assessments for the National Register of Historic Places, review of proposed projects that might affect historic properties under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, and the development of preservation plans and strategies at the state and local levels. The inventory process involves detailed research, field surveys, and the application of established criteria for historic significance. The data collected informs decisions regarding the protection and adaptive reuse of historic buildings and sites, contributing to the preservation of Indiana’s tangible cultural heritage. The question tests the understanding of the practical application and purpose of this state-level inventory within the broader framework of historic preservation law and practice in Indiana.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, often referred to as the “State Register,” is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties that possess historical or architectural significance within Indiana. While its designation does not carry the same legal force as listing on the National Register of Historic Places, it serves as a vital preliminary step and a basis for state-level preservation efforts. Properties listed on the State Register are eligible for consideration for the National Register and may also be prioritized for state funding or tax incentives related to historic preservation. The process of nomination and evaluation for the State Register is governed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Inclusion signifies that a property meets specific criteria for significance, often related to its association with important historical events or persons, or its distinctive architectural style or construction. This inventory helps guide development decisions and promotes awareness of Indiana’s rich cultural landscape.

Indiana Code IC 14-21-1-24 establishes the process for handling human remains and associated artifacts discovered during construction or excavation. When human remains are found, work must cease immediately, and the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and the county coroner must be notified. The coroner determines if the remains are of Native American origin. If they are determined to be Native American, the SHPO consults with the federally recognized Indian tribes with ancestral ties to Indiana, as outlined in IC 14-21-1-25. The goal is to facilitate the respectful disposition of these remains and artifacts in consultation with the most likely lineal descendants or affiliated tribes. The process prioritizes consultation and collaboration to ensure cultural sensitivity and adherence to established protocols for the treatment of ancestral remains. This legal framework is designed to balance development needs with the paramount importance of respecting and preserving cultural heritage, particularly concerning Indigenous populations in Indiana.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, mandated by IC 14-21-1-14, requires the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to maintain a comprehensive list of historic properties. While the inventory itself does not grant legal protection to listed properties, it serves as a crucial foundational document for subsequent preservation efforts. The process of inventorying involves identifying, documenting, and evaluating properties based on established criteria for historical significance. This documentation is vital for informing decisions regarding potential impacts from development projects and for guiding the allocation of resources for preservation initiatives. Without this inventory, the state would lack a systematic method for identifying its cultural heritage assets, making targeted preservation strategies and compliance with federal preservation laws, such as Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, significantly more challenging. The inventory is a proactive measure to understand and catalog Indiana’s historical landscape.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, mandated by IC 14-21-1-12, requires state agencies to identify and document historic properties under their jurisdiction. This inventory serves as a foundational tool for assessing potential impacts of proposed undertakings on cultural heritage resources. When a state agency plans a project that might affect a historic property listed in or eligible for the state register, it must consult with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR), Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). This consultation process is designed to determine the project’s potential adverse effects and to develop mitigation strategies. The specific requirements for this consultation are outlined in the state’s historic preservation program, which aligns with federal guidelines under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act, as applied to state-level undertakings. The goal is to balance development needs with the preservation of Indiana’s significant historical and architectural assets. Therefore, a state agency’s failure to conduct this inventory and subsequent consultation for a project impacting a potentially historic structure would be a violation of the state’s preservation framework.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, mandated by IC 14-21-1-24, requires the Indiana Department of Natural Resources to maintain a comprehensive inventory of historically significant sites and structures within the state. This inventory serves as a foundational document for state-level historic preservation planning and decision-making. When a proposed project, such as the construction of a new highway bypass near Bloomington, Indiana, might impact a property listed on or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places, Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) comes into play, requiring federal agencies to consider the effects of their undertakings on historic properties. Furthermore, Indiana’s own cultural heritage laws, particularly those related to archaeological resources and public projects, dictate specific procedures for consultation and mitigation when potential impacts to cultural resources are identified. In this scenario, the primary legal mechanism for initiating a formal review of potential adverse effects on a historic property during a federally funded or permitted undertaking is the Section 106 consultation process, which involves identifying historic properties, assessing effects, and developing mitigation strategies in consultation with stakeholders, including the State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) for Indiana. The State Historic Preservation Officer plays a crucial role in this process by providing expertise and guidance on behalf of the state.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, established under Indiana Code Title 14, Article 21, Chapter 4, serves as a foundational tool for identifying and documenting properties of historical significance within the state. This inventory is not merely a list but a dynamic resource that informs preservation efforts, land use planning, and potential eligibility for state and federal historic tax credits. When a property is nominated for inclusion, a thorough evaluation process is undertaken, typically involving architectural historians and preservation specialists. This process assesses the property’s integrity of location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, feeling, and association, as outlined in National Register of Historic Places criteria, which are often adapted for state-level designations. The inventory’s primary purpose is to provide a comprehensive overview of Indiana’s built heritage, enabling informed decision-making regarding its protection and adaptive reuse. Inclusion on the inventory does not automatically confer legal protection against demolition or alteration, but it significantly raises awareness and can be a prerequisite for accessing certain funding or regulatory review processes. The process involves research into historical records, surveys of physical condition, and comparison against established architectural and historical significance criteria. The goal is to create a robust record that aids in the ongoing stewardship of Indiana’s cultural resources.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout Indiana. The inventory process involves systematic field surveys, archival research, and the application of established criteria for determining historic significance. Properties are assessed based on their association with important historical events or persons, their embodiment of significant architectural styles or construction techniques, or their potential to yield important information about prehistory or history. The IHSSI does not grant legal protection to properties; rather, it serves as a foundational tool for identifying potential candidates for nomination to the National Register of Historic Places and for informing preservation planning and decision-making at state and local levels. The information gathered is publicly accessible and is crucial for understanding Indiana’s built heritage. The program’s effectiveness relies on consistent methodology and accurate data collection to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the state’s historical resources.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology. Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties throughout Indiana. The inventory process involves systematic field surveys, research into historical records, and the application of established criteria for determining historical significance. Properties are assessed based on their association with important historical events or persons, their embodiment of distinctive architectural characteristics, or their potential to yield significant archaeological information. The documentation typically includes detailed descriptions, historical context, architectural analysis, and photographic records. While the IHSSI does not itself grant legal protection, the information it generates is crucial for informing decisions related to historic preservation, including nominations to the National Register of Historic Places and the implementation of state and local preservation ordinances. The Indiana Landmarks Preservation Act (IC 14-21-1) provides the legal framework for historic preservation in Indiana, empowering state agencies and local governments to protect significant historic sites and structures. The IHSSI serves as a foundational tool for implementing this legislative mandate by providing the data necessary to identify what is worth preserving. Therefore, the core function of the IHSSI is the systematic identification and documentation of historically significant resources within the state of Indiana.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a statewide survey program administered by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology (DHPA). Its primary purpose is to identify, document, and evaluate historic properties across Indiana that may be eligible for historic designation or preservation assistance. The inventory process involves systematic field surveys, archival research, and the application of established historic preservation criteria. Properties are assessed based on their architectural significance, historical associations, integrity of setting, and other factors outlined in state and federal guidelines, such as those from the National Park Service. The goal is to create a comprehensive database that informs preservation planning, land use decisions, and the allocation of resources for historic sites. This inventory serves as a foundational tool for understanding Indiana’s built heritage and for implementing effective strategies to protect it. It is a continuous process, with ongoing updates and new surveys contributing to a more complete picture of the state’s historical resources. The information gathered is crucial for identifying potential National Register of Historic Places nominations and for guiding the review of projects that might affect historic properties under Indiana’s various preservation laws.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory (IHSSI) is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties that possess historical or architectural significance within the state. Its primary purpose is to create a comprehensive database that informs preservation planning, policy decisions, and the allocation of resources for heritage conservation. Properties listed on the IHSSI are evaluated based on established criteria for historical association and architectural merit. While inclusion on the IHSSI does not automatically confer legal protection, it serves as a foundational step for potential nomination to the National Register of Historic Places or designation under state or local preservation ordinances. The inventory process itself involves detailed research, field surveys, and the application of specific guidelines to assess a property’s integrity and significance. This systematic approach ensures that the state’s cultural resources are accurately cataloged and understood, facilitating informed decisions about their future. The inventory is dynamic, with ongoing updates and additions reflecting new research and discoveries, thereby maintaining its relevance as a living record of Indiana’s heritage.

The Indiana Natural Resources Commission (NRC) has the authority to designate certain areas as “natural, scenic, or historical places” under Indiana Code § 14-18-5-1. This designation process involves a formal review and approval by the NRC. When considering a property for such a designation, the commission evaluates various factors, including its geological, ecological, historical, or cultural significance. The statute does not mandate that the property must be owned by a governmental entity; private ownership is permissible. Furthermore, the designation does not automatically confer public access rights; such rights would need to be established through separate agreements or legal mechanisms. The primary purpose of this designation is to protect and preserve the intrinsic qualities of the identified place for future generations. The process involves public notice and an opportunity for comment, ensuring transparency and stakeholder input.

The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory, managed by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Division of Historic Preservation and Archaeology, is a crucial tool for identifying and documenting properties of potential historic significance across the state. While not a legally binding designation itself, inclusion in the inventory serves as a primary step in the process of evaluating a property’s eligibility for various forms of protection and recognition. This inventory is a foundational element for determining eligibility for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, which can then trigger review requirements under Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act for federally funded or permitted projects. Furthermore, the inventory informs state-level preservation planning, grant eligibility, and the application of state tax credits for rehabilitation projects. The process of inventorying involves systematic field surveys, research into a property’s history and architectural character, and assessment against established National Register criteria. Properties identified in the inventory are often considered for nomination to the National Register, a process that involves a more rigorous evaluation and a formal review by the Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Advisory Committee and the Keeper of the National Register. The inventory is a dynamic resource, updated periodically to reflect new discoveries and changes in the built environment. Its existence and the procedures surrounding it are integral to the practical application of Indiana’s cultural heritage laws and policies, ensuring that the state’s historic resources are systematically identified and considered in development and preservation efforts.