Beyond Boundaries: National Preservation Conference to Explore Connection Between Preservation and Today’s Social Issues

WHEN:  October 31 - November 3, 2012

WHERE:  Spokane, Washington

“Beyond Boundaries” is the theme of the National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Preservation Conference, the largest gathering of its kind in the nation attended by approximately 2000 preservation professionals from around the country.  The conference theme is reflected in all aspects of the conference, from sessions on sustainability and job creation, to opening remarks by Keynote Speaker Annie Leonard, creator of “The Story of Stuff Project,” click here an eye-opening chronicle of consumerism and the throw-away mentality.”  Ms. Leonard’s talk will draw parallels between preservation and environmentally friendly consumerism. 

The conference attracts nationally known experts and utilizes the host city as a classroom to showcase and learn from local preservation successes and issues. The historical significance of Native American culture in Spokane and the surrounding region will serve as an additional conference focus area.  Preservation challenges unique to Native American culture will be explored at the conference, with sessions on Native American language preservation, preserving and empowering ongoing tribal cultures, and the first ever National Preservation Conference Pow Wow presented by Native American tribal members. 

Attendees will find a large selection of educational sessions and field sessions to choose from to tailor their conference experience.  Educational sessions range from topics such as “Agriculture on Main Street,” to “Interpreting History of the Atomic Age,” and “Kalispel Tribe Language Preservation.”  Field sessions provide in-depth examination of regional preservation challenges and successes with tours of important preservation projects led by local preservation experts involved with the projects.

All major conference events take place in downtown Spokane, while field sessions will venture into surrounding areas.  Conference venues include the Spokane Convention Center, The Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox, The Bing Crosby Theater, the Spokane Masonic Center and the Davenport Hotel.  Conference registration opens June 1.  Early online registration click here is encouraged for the best selection of events.  For registration questions call 202.588.6100 or toll-free 866.805.5725, or email conference@nthp.org