National Register of Historic Places

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Administered by the National Park Service and state historic preservation offices, the National Register of Historic Places is the nation’s official list of historic and archaeological resources deemed worthy of preservation. The National Register recognizes districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering and culture. 

The National Register challenges us to define how our built environment contributes to an understanding of the historic and cultural foundations of our communities, our state, and our nation. Because the National Register helps us understand the ways in which historic properties are important, it allows us to make informed decisions regarding their continued use.

The Kentucky Heritage Council has been widely recognized for its successful National Register program. In fact, among states, Kentucky has the fourth highest number of listings (following New York, Massachusetts and Ohio) - with more than 3,400 districts, sites and structures encompassing more than 42,000 historic features.

Buildings and sites listed in the National Register of Historic Places are distinguished by having been documented and evaluated according to uniform standards. These criteria recognize the accomplishments of all peoples who have contributed to the history and heritage of the United States and are designed to help state and local governments, federal agencies and others identify important historic and archeological properties worthy of preservation and of consideration in planning and development decisions.

​Though completing the National Register process can be a challenging endeavor, marked by time limitations and possible costs, KHC staff stand at the ready to guide you through each phase, committed to promptly resolving any challenges that arise. 

A brick home known as the Nugent House was listed in the National Register in July 2020 for its association with Black suffrage and the African American women’s club movement in Louisville. Constructed between 1864-1876, the house was researched and nominated by Laura Bache, a student at Kentucky Country Day High School, for her “Shattering the Glass Ceiling: A Girl Scout Gold Award Project." For more, watch this video produced in partnership with the Kentucky Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. 

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