Other structures which would not engage the especial interest of an architectural connoisseur are the great number of plain structures which by fate or accident are identified with historic events. Peterson, Charles E., to the Director, U.S. Dept. of the Interior, Office of National Parks, Buildings, and Reservations, Washington, Nov. 13, 1933. The merits of the original 1933 proposal and the accessibility, popularity and scholarly value of the documentation thus created have ensured the success and continuation of these programs. Peterson's words continue to guide the ongoing work. Buildings and engineering structures are large objects not easily maintained or preserved once they have outlived their functional or economic usefulness.
Documentation becomes an alternative means of preservation when demolition is inevitable.
Peterson enlisted the help of a wide variety of people and organizations. The American Institute of Architects, through its national membership, provided early leadership and guidance to the fledgling program, with many prominent historical architects serving as District Officers directing the work from coast to coast.