Historic Preservation is the study and practice of creatively maintaining the historic built environment. The Secretary of the Interior of the U.S. government defines the historic environment as districts, sites, buildings, structures, objects, and landscapes which are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture.

People practice preservation for many reasons. Preservation helps maintain identity, educates people about history, is an economic tool for planners and governments, and creates dialogues about shared values.