Values-centered preservation theory and the preservation planning of African-American historic resources in Prince George’s County, Maryland

Abstract

This paper examines values-centered preservation theory as articulated in Randall Mason’s article Theoretical and Practical Arguments for Values-Centered Preservation, and considers its usefulness as a model for preservation planning of African-American historic resources. This paper explores aspects of the Prince George’s County historic preservation program, particularly the preservation of historic properties associated with African-American history that engage the core principles of values-centered preservation theory described by Mason. The National Register of Historic Places: Multiple Property Documentation Form for African-American Historic Resources in Prince George’s County, Maryland, will be evaluated in relation to its promotion of values-centered preservation planning principles. Other initiatives organized by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission that embody a valuesbased approach to the preservation of African-American historic resources will also be discussed.