Community Action Guide

In today’s cultural and political climate, advocating for the preservation of Minnesota’s historic resources is challenging; even in the best of times it is an up-hill battle. Over the past three decades that Preservation Alliance of Minnesota (PAM) has been advocating for the preservation of the state’s tangible heritage, we have learned that success in preservation advocacy relies on knowledge, communication and action.

The Community Action Guide provides grassroots preservation activists with a step-by-step guide for tackling a location preservation issue – which most commonly rears its head in a crisis situation. Because knowledge is the most powerful weapon, this handbook offers a toolbox of tips and tools to assist those “in the trenches” by providing information on the legal framework, potential partners and systems for preventing future crises.

Preservation Crisis Handbook

The Preservation Crisis Handbook is an expanded version of the Community Action Guide, with a more thorough discussion of preservation history, preservation and environmental law, and further explains preservation at the local, state and federal level.

Disaster Plan Management

Tips for cultural institutions.  What you need to know before, during and after an emergency.

Illustrated Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings

This site, which guides users through the US Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation, will appeal to anyone who owns an old home or has an interest in historic preservation. After an initial overview of the standards, users can browse illustrated
guidelines for specific building features and areas (windows, entrances, roofs, masonry, wood, etc.). For each, the site offers a list of recommended and not recommended practices. Additional topics addressed include energy, new additions, accessibility, and health/ safety. Another useful on-site resource is the National Park Service’s Good Guides to historic buildings, landmarks, and landscapes.

Financial Resources

The Alliance has two guides to help preservationists understand which funding resources may assist their projects.  Please note that funding changes yearly and new sources are continually being identified.  This is not intended to be a complete list, but rather a starting guide for those looking for funding.

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