In this article, we will talk about the 20 states with the most national historic landmarks in the US. You can also take a look at the 25 Most Futuristic Cities in the US.
Different buildings, museums, parks, districts, and monuments play an important role in preserving culture and tradition in any country. In 1938, America took its first step in this effort by preserving the Salem Maritime historic site. The historic site covers nine acres along the Salem waterfront and includes twelve historic buildings and a downtown visitor center.
The USA is home to over 2,600 national historic landmarks, with almost 25% located in Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and New York. Three cities, namely Philadelphia, Boston, and New York City each have more national historic landmarks than 40 of the 50 states individually.
Initially, the Interior Secretary was responsible for managing properties of national historical significance. In 1960, this authority was transferred to the National Register of Historic Places and officially formalized.
The importance of preserving historic sites and landmarks has grown over time, with 100 ships and shipwrecks from various states now designated as national historic landmarks. The National Park Service also recommends maintaining and promoting these historic landmarks for the future as they help boost the economy, promote tourism, and maintain cultural traditions.
Since 2022, the National Park Service has allocated significant funding to expand its collection of landmarks, aiming to cover a broader range of American narratives. Currently, only a small portion of national historic sites reflect histories that hold significance for communities, such as Black Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos. As of 2022, only about 40 landmarks directly relate to the histories of women, Black Americans, and Asian Americans. This highlights the ongoing need for further efforts and improvements in this area.
Microsoft Corporation (NASDAQ:MSFT) is collaborating with various organizations on technological innovations for historical preservation. The company is working with heritage activists to digitally document cultures across the world. Microsoft AI uses advanced algorithms and computing power to quickly create detailed 3D models from thousands of photos.
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Our Methodology
To shortlist the 20 states with the most national historic landmarks in the US, we used the National Park Service database. The states have been ranked in ascending order of the number of national historical landmarks in each one of them.
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20 States with the Most National Historic Landmarks in the US
20. Rhode Island
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 45
Rhode Island currently hosts 45 national historic landmarks, each important for preserving America’s history. One standout among these landmarks is “The Breakers,” a mansion once owned by an American socialite. The mansion was built in between 1893-1895.
19. New Mexico
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 46
New Mexico is home to about 46 national historic landmarks. Among these, Taos Pueblo is particularly famous. It’s one of the oldest communities in America, recognized by UNESCO for its unique architecture. These landmarks offer insights into ancient American sites, Spanish colonial influence, and military history.
18. Arizona
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 47
Arizona’s 47 national historic landmarks represent a timeline from Native American culture to the colonial era. Among these, the Grand Canyon stands out as Arizona’s most famous national historic landmark.
17. Florida
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 47
Florida is home to 47 national historic landmarks, making it one of the top 20 states with the most national historic landmarks in the US. Since Florida has witnessed many civil and military wars, many battlefields and forts were later made national historic landmarks by the government. The most famous national historic landmark in Florida is Castillo de San Marcos.
16. Texas
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 50
Texas hosts 50 national historic landmarks in total and the city holds great historical knowledge. These 50 landmarks have been designated by the National Park Service. The most famous landmark located in Texas is The Alamo. It’s an indoor multipurpose stadium.
15. Alaska
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 50
Alaska’s national historic landmarks showcase a mix of American history and culture. These sites include cultural spots, trading posts, buildings, and military bases that reveal past events. Alaska played a key role in World War II, and its historic landmarks offer insights into this era. Sitka National Historical Park is one of Alaska’s most famous landmarks in the state.
14. Georgia
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 50
Georgia is known for its civil rights history, modern industries, and colonial past. The state hosts 50 historic landmarks. The most known national historic landmark in Georgia is the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Park.
13. Louisiana
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 53
Louisiana has 53 landmarks that reflect the traditional and architectural diversity of the US. These landmarks include buildings, forts, churches, and museums representing cultural heritage from colonial times through the Civil War. The French Quarter is the most famous site in Louisiana.
12. New Jersey
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 58
New Jersey has 58 national historic landmarks that showcase industrial innovations, Victorian homes, and colonial buildings from many periods in American history. The most famous site in New Jersey is the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, which includes the preserved laboratory and home of Thomas Edison, known as one of America’s greatest inventors.
11. Connecticut
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 65
Connecticut has 65 national historic landmarks that are important for understanding American history. The most popular landmark in Connecticut is The Mark Twain House and Museum.
10. District of Columbia
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 76
Washington DC represents the rich culture and history of the United States as the nation’s capital. It holds deep historical significance with numerous events that shaped the country. Currently, Washington DC is home to 76 national historic landmarks. The most well-known site in Washington DC is The White House.
9. South Carolina
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 76
South Carolina has a rich connection to historical events, with many key moments and cultural landmarks preserved as national historic sites. The state has 76 landmarks, with Fort Sumter National Monument being the most well-known.
8. Ohio
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 76
Ohio’s 76 national historic landmarks span from ancient times to the present. These sites reflect the lives of Ohio’s earliest inhabitants and significant historical events, such as the Wright Brothers National Memorial, where the first airplane was invented. Ohio ranks among the top 10 states with the most national historic landmarks in the US.
7. Maryland
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 77
Maryland is home to 77 historic sites, making it one of the 20 states with the most national historic landmarks in the US. One of the most popular sites in Maryland is the Fort McHenry National Monument.
6. Illinois
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 89
Illinois has 89 national historic landmarks that showcase its industrial and political history. These landmarks include various types of buildings, museums, and forts, all preserved for future generations. The most well-known site in Illinois is the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio.
5. Virginia
Number of National Historic Landmarks: 123
Virginia played an important role in the early settlement of the USA and currently houses 123 national historic landmarks. These landmarks provide insights into colonial settlements, battles, and historic events. The most renowned site in Virginia is Monticello.