How are the properties selected for inclusion in DHR’s permanent collection?
A statewide survey of buildings, districts, and sites is an ongoing responsibility of the department. Often working with local governments and private organizations, DHR assembles data, photographs, and maps for each property surveyed, with an emphasis on structures that are more than 50 years old. This material is then added to the department’s Archives. Similar files are also created on properties and sites surveyed as a result of planned construction projects. Do the files contain historical photographs? Few historical photographs are included in DHR’s files. Virtually all of the photographs in the files have been produced by staff, surveyors, or residents since the department was formed (as the Virginia Historic Landmarks Commission) in 1966. For more information on historical photographs and illustrations, please contact the Library of Virginia, the Virginia Historical Society, or the Richmond History Center (Valentine Museum).
