Cultural Resource Management (CRM) refers to the stewardship of cultural heritage within the legal and regulatory frameworks established by federal, state, and local authorities. In the context of CRM, cultural heritage encompasses sites, objects, structures, buildings, and other remnants of past material culture and life that hold significance for understanding, appreciating, or preserving history. While similar to heritage programs globally, CRM, as a defined term and practice, is largely unique to the United States.
America’s recognition of the importance of cultural resources dates back to the early 20th century. The American Antiquities Act of 1906 authorized the president to designate national monuments on federally owned or controlled lands. It also empowered the Secretaries of the Interior, Agriculture, and the Army to issue permits for investigating archaeological sites and objects on lands under their jurisdiction. In 1916, the National Park Service was established, assuming responsibility for cultural resources within national parks and monuments. Archaeology gained further prominence during the Great Depression through the Works Progress Administration (WPA) and other relief programs, leading to extensive investigations nationwide. Modern CRM, as practiced today, emerged from the environmental movement of the 1960s. This era saw the extension of protection to federal cultural resources, mirroring the safeguards applied to elements of the natural environment like wetlands and endangered species. CRM encompasses a wide spectrum of resource types, a diversity reflected in the discussions that follow.
Defining Cultural Resources
The National Park Service defines cultural resources as “archaeological resources, cultural landscapes, ethnographic resources, historic and prehistoric structures, and museum collections.” Cultural Resource Management encompasses more than the academic study of these resources.
Key Aspects of Cultural Resource Management
Understanding the key aspects of Cultural Resource Management is crucial:
- Practice: The practical application of CRM principles in identifying, evaluating, and managing cultural resources.
- Legal Structure: The federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and guidelines that mandate and support CRM activities.
- Specialties: The diverse professional disciplines, such as archaeology, history, architectural history, and historic preservation, that contribute to CRM.
The Role of the American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA)
The American Cultural Resources Association (ACRA) plays a vital role in the CRM industry in the United States.
ACRA is a professional trade association that represents the entire CRM industry. Its membership comprises both companies and individual consultants working in the field. ACRA provides a platform for networking, advocacy, and professional development within the CRM community.
The Breadth of Cultural Resource Types
Cultural Resource Management deals with various resource types, broadly categorized as:
Archaeological Resources
Archaeological resources include sites, artifacts, and other material remains of past human activity. These resources provide valuable insights into past cultures, technologies, and lifeways. CRM archaeologists conduct surveys, excavations, and analyses to document and interpret archaeological resources, ensuring their preservation and protection.
Cultural Landscapes
Cultural landscapes are geographic areas that reflect the interaction between humans and the natural environment. They may include historic farms, gardens, parks, or other places where human activities have shaped the landscape over time. CRM professionals assess the significance of cultural landscapes and develop strategies for their management and preservation.
Ethnographic Resources
Ethnographic resources are places, objects, and practices that are culturally significant to contemporary communities. These resources may include sacred sites, traditional cultural properties, or objects used in customary rituals. CRM specialists work with indigenous and local communities to identify, document, and manage ethnographic resources in a culturally sensitive manner.
Historic and Prehistoric Structures
Historic and prehistoric structures encompass buildings, bridges, monuments, and other constructed features that are significant for their historical, architectural, or engineering values. CRM professionals evaluate the integrity and significance of historic structures and develop strategies for their preservation, rehabilitation, or adaptive reuse.
Museum Collections
Museum collections consist of artifacts, documents, and other objects that are preserved and interpreted by museums and other cultural institutions. CRM professionals manage museum collections to ensure their long-term preservation, accessibility, and use for research, education, and public engagement.
Conclusion
Cultural Resource Management is a multifaceted field that plays a crucial role in preserving and interpreting our shared cultural heritage. By understanding the principles, practices, and legal frameworks of CRM, we can work together to protect cultural resources for future generations. A career in CRM offers a chance to protect historical sites, contribute to research and learn more about past cultures, making it a fulfilling path for those interested in history and preservation.
