Breath of Life: An Outline of the Development of a National Policy for Historical Preservation

The purpose of this study is to trace the development of the Federal interest in historical preservation, particularly as it is evidenced in legislation. The study focuses on the firsts in the movement and does not purport to be definitive in any sense of the word. Two major legislative enactments received special emphasis, the Antiquities Act of 1906 and the Historical Sites Act of 1935. Together they form the heart and soul of the Federal policy in the preservation of nationally significant historic sites and buildings.
The study evolved from a desire to illuminate the beginnings and growth of the historical program of the National Park Service. It is not exclusively devoted to this subject, but the original conception has influenced its organization, its points of emphasis, and its content.