National Trust for Historic Preservation Announces 2008 List of
America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations
Washington, D.C. (February 7, 2008) - The National Trust for
Historic Preservation® today announced the selection of its 2008
Dozen Distinctive Destinations®. Each year since 2000, the National
Trust for Historic Preservation has selected 12 vacation
destinations across the United States that offer an authentic
visitor experience by combining dynamic downtowns, cultural
diversity, attractive architecture, cultural landscapes and a
strong commitment to historic preservation and revitalization.
The destinations selected in 2008 range from a French colonial
village along the banks of the Mississippi River that captures the
pioneer spirit of the early settlers, to a small Texas town that
serves as a gateway to the unspoiled terrain of the 19th century
western frontier, to a gorgeous Southern city with roots three
centuries deep, and a coastal town renowned for its seafood and
historic buildings.
"These twelve communities represent the richness and diversity
of America's cultural heritage," says Richard Moe, president of the
National Trust for Historic Preservation, "and in preserving their
historic fabric and spirit of place are models for other towns and
cities."
The 2008 list of America's Dozen Distinctive Destinations
includes:
Aiken, S.C.-Aiken seamlessly balances its varied 19th century
heritage with cosmopolitan flair to offer all the necessary
ingredients for a great vacation.
Apalachicola, Fla.- Apalachicola, an authentic coastal town
renowned for its mouth-watering seafood and singular charm,
features a waterfront dotted with fishing vessels, a downtown
filled with eclectic shops and streets lined with historic
buildings.
Columbus, Miss.-The birthplace of prize-winning playwright,
Tennessee Williams, Columbus thrives on its extraordinary mix of
Southern history, natural beauty and culture-with antebellum homes
spared during the Civil War and historic tours showcasing the
remarkable impact of the African American community to a
revitalized Main Street that possesses great curb appeal.
Crested Butte, Colo.-One of the most charming vacation
destinations in the Rockies, this former coal mining village is a
recreational paradise that offers a rare mix of rugged beauty,
history and adventure no matter the time of year.
Fort Davis, Texas-With no traffic lights or chain stores, Fort
Davis is a gateway to an unspoiled terrain, offering an
extraordinary blend of majestic scenery, abundant wildlife and
cultural resources that bring to life the history of the 19th
century western frontier.
Friday Harbor, Wash.-This small, well-preserved community in the
San Juan Island chain is one square mile of perfection-an antidote
to city life, ideal for outdoor adventurers, wildlife enthusiasts
and history buffs alike.
Portland, Ore.- Boasting both the charm of a small town
community and the urban vitality of a big city, Portland, Oregon is
a dynamic destination that offers an alluring mix of natural
beauty, lively downtown entertainment and landmark historic
attractions.
Portsmouth, N.H.-This elegant seaport, the nation's third oldest
city, is one of the most culturally rich destinations in the
country with its captivating blend of coastal beauty, historic
buildings and lively downtown.
Red Wing, Minn.-Conveniently located one hour south of the Twin
Cities, this handsome historic town features a treasure trove of
architectural gems dating back to its beginnings as a riverfront
trade point as well as an enviable natural environment.
Ste. Genevieve, Mo.-One hour south of St. Louis, Ste. Genevieve
is the only French colonial village remaining in the United States,
providing an unparalleled glimpse into the pioneer spirit of the
early settlers.
San Juan Bautista, Calif.-Known as the "City of History" because
of its unparalleled collection of Spanish colonial architecture,
San Juan Bautista showcases Old California like no other.
Wilmington, N.C.-From riverboats to battleships, grand old
mansions to historic museums, splendid gardens to Civil War
sites-Wilmington, North Carolina has a charm and style all its own
that dates back nearly three centuries.
This is the ninth time the National Trust for Historic
Preservation has announced a list of Dozen Distinctive
Destinations. To date, there are 108 Distinctive Destinations
located in 42 states throughout the country. To see a complete
list, visit www.nationaltrust.org\ddd. In each community, residents
have taken forceful action to protect their town's character and
sense of place. Whether by enacting a local preservation law to
protect historic buildings against demolition, rewriting zoning
codes to prevent commercial sprawl, removing regulatory barriers to
downtown housing, making downtown areas more walkable, enacting
design standards, or taking some other major step that demonstrates
a strong commitment to their town, residents have worked hard to
preserve the historic and scenic assets of their communities, with
rewards that transcend town limits.
To download high resolution images of this year's Dozen
Distinctive Destinations, please visit press.nationaltrust.org
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a non-profit
membership organization bringing people together to protect,
enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them. By saving the
places where great moments from history - and the important moments
of everyday life - took place, the National Trust for Historic
Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark
economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With
headquarters in Washington, DC, nine regional and field offices, 29
historic sites, and partner organizations in all 50 states, the
National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership,
education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people,
organizations and local communities committed to saving places,
connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of
America's stories. For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.