This page provides access to resources those interested in Historical Preservation in Charleston may wish to consult.  If you are aware of resources not contained on this page please let the commission know about them.
 
LOCAL: There are many groups and organizations in Coles County dedicated to the preservation of historic structures. Each has specific goals and holdings, and provides different types of information to help you conduct research on your home, individuals and Charleston history in general.

Coles County Genealogical Society
Localities, EIU History Department (this is a frames based site so you will need to access Localities off the sidebar)
Charleston Public Library, Genealogy Room
Coles County Historical Society
Association For Preservation of Historic Coles County

STATE AND FEDERAL: Government programs at the state and national level provide guidelines, standards and expertise for preservationists.

 National Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation's official list of cultural resources worthy of preservation. Authorized under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Register is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect our historic and archeological resources. Properties listed in the Register include districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are significant in American history, architecture, archeology, engineering, and culture. The National Register is administered by the National Park Service, which is part of the U.S. Department of the Interior. This website provides downloadable bulletins and brochures.  It also contains a listing of  Coles County Sites on the National Register

 National Trust for Historic Preservation
For more than 50 years, the National Trust has been helping people protect the irreplaceable. A private nonprofit organization with more than a quarter million members, the National Trust is the leader of the vigorous preservation movement that is saving the best of our past for the future. The National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education and advocacy to save America's diverse historic places and revitalize our communities.

 Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
The mission of the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency is to collect, preserve, interpret and communicate the diverse heritage of Illinois and to educate the public by providing access to historic resources in the state. This website includes information on state preservation services, historical libraries, publications and further resources for preservationists.

 Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois  (LPCI)
The Landmarks Preservation Council of Illinois (LPCI) is the state's leading voice in historic preservation.  The organization began more than thirty years ago in an effort to preserve downtown Chicago's historic buildings.  After more than thirty years in existence, the organization has become a significant voice in favor of preservation in the media and in influencing legislation.  For more detailed information, please visit www.landmarks.org.