Gerald R. Ford

“ One of the most important sources of our sense of national direction is our architectural heritage-the historic sites, structures and landmarks that link us physically with our past. This great fund of cultural resources includes not only sites such as well-known battlefields and structures of national significance such as the homes of famous patriots, but also includes typical houses, office buildings, factories, and stores, and other public buildings such as post offices, courthouses, and railroad stations. ”

“ In this Bicentennial year, we have many opportunities to recall that the greatness of America is founded upon appreciation of our heritage and upon knowledge of the historic events that have shaped our national identity. ”

“ Along the streets of our cities and towns and in our rural areas, these sometimes humble but historic properties remind us of the accomplishments of our predecessors and, thereby, help to provide a continuity and historical perspective that are so important to the cultural heritage of any great nation.
We are a vigorous and mobile people, often oriented more toward the future than the past. ”