About the Commission

Established in 1968, the Rhode Island Historical Preservation & Heritage Commission (RIHPHC) is the state agency that identifies and protects historic buildings and sites, districts, landscapes, and archaeological sites. As the State Historic Preservation Office, the RIHPHC is responsible for reviewing and submitting Rhode Island nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The Commission also develops programs to document and celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Rhode Island's people, past and present. 

The RIHPHC serves the wider Rhode Island community by supporting local organizations, grassroots efforts, and statewide planning. Each community has residents and institutions who are already doing the work of preservation, we just advise and elevate. 

Staff & Governance

RIHPHC employs a professional staff that includes historians, architectural historians, archaeologists, and architects. The Commission is funded by state and federal appropriations.

Two boards of history and preservation experts serve the Commission in a volunteer capacity: the Commissioners and the State Review Board. Each body holds regular public meetings