What is the Antiquities Law?
The Antiquities Law, passed in 1970 and amended in 1983, affirms the States interest in locating, protecting, and preserving historic properties. These properties, which include sites, objects, and buildings of historical, archaeological, or architectural significance, are identified in the law as “Mississippi Landmarks.” The Antiquities Law places the responsibility of implementing the law on the Board of Trustees of the Mississippi Department of Archives and History. The Board has established a Permit Committee, composed of the Department director and professional staff in the Departments Division of Historic Preservation, to designate properties as Mississippi Landmarks and to review any proposed changes to these properties. This process ensures that Mississippis historic, architectural, and cultural heritage is preserved for future generations.
