NCPTT protects America's historic legacy by equipping preservation professionals with progressive technology-based research and training.
Mission
NCPTT advances the application of science and technology to historic preservation. Working in the fields of archeology, architecture, landscape architecture and materials conservation, the Center accomplishes its mission through training, education, research, technology transfer and partnerships.
Introduction
Get the Flash Player to see this player.
Research
NCPTT conducts in-depth research about current preservation issues at its laboratories in the historic Lee H. Nelson Hall in Natchitoches, Louisiana. The Center's research including research developed across the country through our grants program is available at no cost to our users.
Many of America's most treasured cultural resources have benefited from NCPTT's research, including the Statue of Liberty, Congressional Cemetery and a number of National Parks.
Training
NCPTT training courses show participants the most advanced preservation practices through hands-on use of the latest technologies in real-world settings. Respected professionals in the fields of archeology, architecture, materials research and historic landscapes develop and instruct our courses, ensuring a training experience that is comprehensive and relevant.
Our training programs focus not just on the “how” of preservation, but the “why” as well. We enable participants to return to their jobs with a holistic perspective and a thorough knowledge of the tools at their disposal.
Background of NCPTT
NCPTT is an important part of our nation's preservation and conservation community which, in turn, is a vital part of our nation's cultural life. NCPTT serves the community that fostered its creation and, in turn, serves the nation and the world.
Efforts to establish a national preservation center within the National Park Service have
been evolving for nearly two decades. The national need for an initiative that could promote and enhance national preservation efforts was highlighted in a report to Congress prepared by the Office of Technology Assessment (pdf, 4.5MB).
In response to the clearly stated need for a national preservation initiative, Congress passed the Historic Preservation Act Amendments of 1992, creating NCPTT, NCPTT's advisory board and NCPTT's grants program. NCPTT fulfills the OTA report recommendations to develop and distribute skills and technologies that enhance the preservation, conservation, and interpretation of prehistoric and historic resources throughout the United States.
For further information about NCPTT programs, please see the NCPTT overview and program briefs (pdf, 4.1MB) or explore our web site.