Overview
Context Statements are a tool used to make preservation decisions. Cultural Context Statements provide:
- An overview of local history and culture
- A framework for places, people, and traditions important to the community
- An understanding of community identity
A cultural context statement includes:
- information based on cultural themes
- descriptions of broad community patterns and trends
- identification of specific buildings, structures, sites, objects, and districts reflecting community
The Office of Historic Preservation is creating a strategic plan for context statements. The first context statement, currently underway, is on African American Heritage. Funding for this work comes from the Texas Historical Commission. The San Antonio Conservation Society has also provided funding.
Vision
The Office of Historic Preservation works with communities to tell their own stories. The vision is to focus on context statements for underrepresented groups.
The Living Heritage Symposium Action Plan includes creating context statements and community storytelling.
Goals
OHP's goal is to use a value-based approach. This means we focus not only on architecture. We also include traditions, spirituality, music, art, and other forms of cultural expression. We include values identified by the community.
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