Architecture & History Inventory
Explore our Inventory of
Historic Properties
The Architecture & History Inventory (AHI) is a digital source of information about historic buildings, structures, and objects throughout Wisconsin. Each property has a digital record providing basic information about the property and images.
Search AHI
About the Wisconsin Architecture & History Inventory (AHI)
The Wisconsin Architecture & History Inventory (AHI) is a database of information assembled by the SHPO over 50 years from surveys and research. Most properties were identified through systematic architectural and historical survey. A wide range of historic properties are represented such as the round barns, log houses, metal truss bridges, small town commercial buildings, and Queen Anne houses that reflect Wisconsin's cultural landscape.
Most properties in the AHI are privately owned and not open to the public. An AHI record does not indicate a property has special status such as local, state, or national designation. A property recorded in the AHI may not have special benefits or responsibilities for property owners.
AHI images have been digitized, in part, through the support of a Preserve America grant administered by the National Park Service, Department of the Interior.
What's the Difference?
What's the difference between the Architecture & History Inventory
and the National & State Register of Historic Places?
Registers of Historic Places
- Listed on the National Register means that the property meets at least one National Register Criterion for significance.
- Listing is largely an honorific distinction for private property.
- A formal National Register nomination has been submitted to WI SHPO, nominated by the WI Historic Preservation Review Board, and approved by the National Park Service.
Architecture & History Inventory
- Has been recorded in the Architecture and History Inventory, possibly through a survey, an owner inquiry, or a preservation project.
- May or may not have received or be eligible for a listing in State Register or National Register of Historic Places.
- Not every entry in the AHI has a historic designation
The Register of Historic Places
The National Register of Historic Places is the Nation's official list of historic places worthy of preservation. The register is maintained by the National Park Service in the U.S. Department of the Interior.
The State Register is Wisconsin's official list of state properties determined to be significant to Wisconsin's heritage. The State Historic Preservation Office at the Wisconsin Historical Society administers both the National Register and State Register in Wisconsin.
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Wisconsin Historic Preservation Database
The State Historic Preservation Office manages the state's database of historic resources. Qualified researchers can request access to the database.
Learn More About WHPDQuestions?
Wondering about if your property is eligible or notice some information on this property needs to be updated, reach out today!
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