The Eureka Springs Historic District
The heart of Eureka Springs….
What is the Eureka Springs Historic District?
The Eureka Springs Historic District is the district that most locals and tourists recognize. The district is within the 1970 city limits, and contains a variety of properties that are considered important for their history or architectural style.
Eureka Springs has three other National Register of Historic Places historic districts as well!
Contributing vs. Non-Contributing Properties
Each building on a property and within a historic district are described as being contributing or non-contributing based on their history and/or architecture (significance) and the degree to which they retain their historic character (integrity).
Contributing
Buildings that contribute are architecturally or historically significant resources that, while they may have experienced some exterior alterations, are easily recognizable as a part of a group of similar resources that, together, demonstrates a particular chapter in our community’s history. Some of these may qualify for individual designation on the state or National registers, but many will not qualify for this recognition.
Non-Contributing
Buildings or structures with little or no historical or architectural significance or that have endured substantial exterior changes are considered non-contributing to the historic district. Although they may be located within a designated property or district, they do not reflect the history or character of the property or district. Properties less than 50 years old are considered non-contributing.
FAQs
I live in the Eureka Springs Historic District. Is my property historic?
Not necessarily. Properties within the boundaries are not automatically considered historic. Each building is usually described as being contributing or non-contributing based on whether or not they reflect the history and/or architecture (significance) of the overall district.
What does “historic property” really mean?
There’s actually a legal definition for historic property. Historic properties are any prehistoric or historic districts, site, building, structure, or object included in, or eligible for inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places maintained by the Secretary of the Interior. These properties retain their integrity and significance and are generally over 50 years old.
What if my property is non-contributing to the district?
Buildings and structures that are non-contributing are still subject to review under City Municipal Code. In these cases, exterior alterations, demolition, and new construction are reviewed for their effect upon neighboring historic properties and the character of the district as a whole.
What are the overall benefits of these designations for the community as a whole?
Some benefits are intangible, such as community pride, preservation of local history, and establishing a “sense of place.” Other, measurable effects include increased property values, increased commerce, and enhanced tourism and marketing opportunities. It also guarantees a level of protection for sites that contribute to the city’s heritage.
Are alterations or additions allowed?
Yes, if the work meets the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards. Nearly all work fits under the Secretary of the Interior’s Standard for Rehabilitation, defined as “the act or process of making possible a compatible use for a property through repair, alterations, and additions while preserving those portions or features which convey its historical, cultural, or architectural values.”
If my property is designated do I have to restore or repair it?
Nope! The designation of a property or historic district does not mean you have to restore your building. It means that when you decide to make changes, they need to be consistent with the overall historical and architectural character of the designated building or the district as a whole. You may be eligible for certain grant or tax benefit programs to assist with any work you decide to do.