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B. Recorded Texas Historic Landmark Markers

Application for a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark Marker

Definition:

Recorded Texas Historic Landmark (RTHL) markers are awarded to structures deemed worthy of preservation for their historical associations and architectural significance.

RTHL is a legal designation and comes with a measure of protection; it is the highest honor the state can bestow on a historic structure, and the designation is required for this type of marker.

The RTHL designation becomes effective upon approval by the THC. Official Texas Historical Markers signify the RTHL designation; designation comes only through application to and approval by the THC and must include pubic display of an Official Texas Historical Marker.

Owners of RTHL-designated structures must give the THC 60 days written notice before any alterations are made to the exterior of the structure. RTHL status is a permanent designation and is not to be removed from the property in the event of a transfer of ownership. Only the THC can remove the designation or recall the marker. The marker must remain with the structure and may not be removed or displayed elsewhere until or unless the THC gives express approval in writing for such action.

Once designated as RTHL, properties are subject to provisions of Texas Government Code, Section 442.006(f).

Criteria:

Age: Structures eligible for the Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designation and marker must be at least 50 years old.

Historical significance:

Architectural significance alone is not enough to qualify a structure for the Recorded Texas Historic Landmark designation.

It must have an equally significant historical association, and that association can come through an event that occurred at the site, through individuals who owned or lived on the property, or, in the case of bridges, industrial plants, schoolhouses, and other non-residential properties, through documented significance to the larger community.

Architectural significance:

Structures deemed architecturally significant are outstanding examples of architectural history, either through design, materials, structural type or construction methods.

In all cases, eligible architectural properties must display integrity, i.e., the structure should be in a good state of repair, maintain its appearance from its period of significance and be considered an exemplary model of preservation.

Architectural significance is often best determined by the relevance of the property to broader contexts, including geography.

Any changes over the years should be compatible with original design and reflect compliance with accepted preservation practices, e.g., the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.

Good state of repair:

Structures not considered by the THC to be in a good state of repair — i.e. restored — are not eligible for RTHL designation.

The THC reserves the sole right to make that determination relative to eligibility for RTHL markers.

Special considerations for RTHL marker applications:

If a structure is individually listed in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) under either Criterion A or B and Criterion C (architecture), the historical text compiled as part of the National Register process may be submitted as part of the marker process, provided it includes the required reference notes and other documentation.

Acceptance of the National Register information for the purposes of the marker process will be the sole determination of the THC. Listing in the NRHP does not guarantee approval for an RTHL marker.