National Register of Historic Landmarks (NHLs)

• Definition: NHLs are buildings, sites, structures, objects, or districts officially recognized by the U.S. government for their exceptional historical, architectural, or cultural significance.

• Administered by: The National Park Service (NPS), part of the U.S. Department of the Interior.

• Purpose: To preserve and protect places that represent key aspects of American history and culture.

• Difference from the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP):

  • All NHLs are listed on the NRHP, but not all NRHP sites are NHLs. NHLs represent the most significant historic places in the country.

Examples of National Historic Landmarks

1. Independence Hall – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

2. Statue of Liberty – New York, New York

3. Alamo Mission – San Antonio, Texas

4. Monticello (Thomas Jefferson’s home) – Charlottesville, Virginia

5. Pearl Harbor Naval Base – Hawaii