State Historic Preservation Office

The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) evaluates, protects and promotes Michigan’s historic built environment and archaeological sites. We lead this effort by helping property owners, developers, and local and state agencies identify and seize opportunities to celebrate and rehabilitate historic places that define local communities and make our state uniquely Michigan.

SHPO staff work in a hybrid environment and are most easily accessible by direct email. Looking to do research? Our process has changed as we prepare to move to a new database platform. Section 106 applications are accepted electronically. General inquiries may be sent to [email protected]. We invite you to explore our Programs and Services below to learn more about historic preservation in Michigan.

Get to Know SHPO

Public Notice/Request for Proposals:

The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF), on behalf of the Michigan State Historic Preservation Office, is seeking a contractor to research and prepare a Statewide Historic Context Statement and Multiple Property Documentation Form for African American Recreational Tourism, conduct an intensive-level historic resource survey of extant sites listed in the Negro Motorist Green Book as identified in the SHPO’s Green Book site list, and complete one National Register of Historic Places nomination for one Green Book site, to be determined during the course of the Project. The Project is funded through a National Park Service African American Civil Rights grant.

Proposals are due December 20, 2024.

RFP: African American Recreational Tourism and the Negro Motorist Green Book in Michigan

RFP Details and how to Respond

SHPO Programs & Services

Preservation Case Studies

Archaeology

Statewide Statistics

State Historic Preservation Review Board

Research Resources

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Michigan Lighthouse Assistance Program (MLAP) Grants Impact

Since the MLAP was established in 2000, the SHPO has awarded matching grants annually to promote the preservation of these historic maritime icons. Grant funds are made available from the revenue generated by the sales of the Save Our Lights fundraising license plate. This map shows a complete list of all program grant recipients.