National Register Update 

Project Overview

The City of Westminster, in partnership with EAC/Archaeology, Inc. (EAC/A), is undertaking an updated National Register of Historic Places Nomination for the Westminster Historic District.

Originally listed in 1980, the district has experienced physical, social, and historical changes over the past four decades. This project will comprehensively document those changes, expand the district’s historic context, and ensure the National Register documentation accurately reflects Westminster’s full and evolving history.

The project is funded through a Maryland Historical Trust Historic Preservation Non-Capital Grant, with matching funds provided by the City of Westminster.

Project Goals

The updated National Register Nomination will:

• Document physical changes within the historic district since 1980

• Expand the historic narrative to understand community themes

• Strengthen documentation for long-term preservation planning

• Improve public access to historic district data

Expanded Historical Research

As part of the renomination process, EAC/A will conduct primary research and secondary archival research to broaden and enhance the historic context of the Westminster Historic District. This work will include:

• Examining the role and contributions of ethnic communities in Westminster’s development

• Providing a more complete Civil War–era history associated with the city

• Expanding existing documentation on Westminster and Carroll County’s role in the national postal Rural Free Delivery (RFD) system

• Community member memories and stories related to people or places in the district 

This expanded research ensures the district’s documentation reflects a more inclusive and accurate historical record.

Field Survey & Photographic Documentation

To support the updated nomination, EAC/A staff will conduct a reconnaissance survey of the Westminster Historic District. This survey will include:

• Photographic documentation of:

  • Streetscapes

  • Significant individual buildings

  • Key landscape features

  • The district’s overall setting

NOTE: All photography will be exterior only, taken from public rights-of-way. No interior access will be required, and the survey will not disturb private property or disrupt daily business activity within the district.

Publicly Accessible GIS Historic District Database

EAC/A will also assist the City in developing a public, web-based GIS database for the Westminster Historic District. This tool will provide baseline information for each parcel within the district, including:

• Contributing or non-contributing status

• Property address

• Tax parcel designation

• Approximate age

• Brief descriptions of contributing historic resources

This database will serve as a long-term planning and educational resource for residents, property owners, researchers, and preservation professionals.

Why This Project Matters

Updating the National Register Nomination helps:

• Protect Westminster’s historic resources

• Support eligibility for preservation incentives and grants

• Provide accurate documentation for future planning decisions

• Celebrate the city’s diverse history as part of America’s 250th anniversary

• Provides opportunities for the City to expand on the stories it can tell residents and visitors