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Abstract:
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A Most Endangered list is a common programmatic tool used by historic preservation advocacy groups . These lists allow the organizations to focus their support on a small , representative selection of threatened historic resources . While these programs are widely accepted and implemented , there has been no formal investigation into their use or study of the subtle differences that make each program unique . This thesis analyzes statewide Most Endangered programs with the goal of determining if there are variables that can enhance the program’s effectiveness at accomplishing the organization’s goals .
Organizations that wish to examine the usability or effectiveness of their Most Endangered programs do not have easy access to the information that is needed for an objective analysis . This is the current situation at Preservation Texas , Texas’ statewide preservation advocacy organization . The staff there is currently evaluating the organization’s Most Endangered program , making this document a timely and useful tool for their use . This thesis seeks to provide a base from which Preservation Texas , or any preservation advocacy organization , can begin to examine their own program’s operations .
For this project I performed research on statewide Most Endangered programs at both macro and micro levels . An initial investigation of the web -presence of these programs enabled me to make broad determinations about their operations . I then selected five of these organizations for a closer study . Through interviews and additional research , it was possible for me to begin to compare and contrast the programs while analyzing their differences from an impartial perspective .
Through this careful study , I developed a list of eight criteria that are indicative of an effective Most Endangered program . In the final chapter I use these eight criteria to analyze Most Endangered programs , specifically the one operated by Preservation Texas . By applying my research and observations , I am able to reach constructive conclusions about the operations and functions of Preservation Texas’ Most Endangered program . While this thesis was written for the benefit of a specific organization , the findings are applicable to any organization that has , or is thinking about starting , a Most Endangered list . |