This booklet is a survey of architectural records held in repositories, government agencies, architectural firms, and private collections throughout North Carolina. The aim of this survey is to begin to unite the scattered architectural collections across the state and to initiate the process for developing a statewide collection strategy and appraisal program for North Carolina architectural records. Architectural Records Defined Architectural records generally are understood to be drawings and specifications.
Blueprints dominate North Carolina collections.
Drawings and blueprints might include floor plans, elevations, details, sections, framing plans, and renderings. For the purpose of this survey, this definition is generally adhered to. However, the definition must remain flexible, especially in a state where vernacular architecture is so important. An architectural record may also be correspondence, reports, diaries, memoirs, or advertisements that document the design and planning of buildings. All of these sources, and countless others, document North Carolina's built environment.