Accessing Architectural Research Reports & Studies

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) creates and collects studies that document Maryland’s architecture and built environment. These studies – which include historic contexts and field and research reports – help people understand how places developed and why certain buildings are important.

Architectural research reports and studies often include information beyond the Maryland Inventory of Historic Properties forms and National Register of Historic Places nominations accessible via Medusa, the state’s cultural resources information system. You can check Medusa to verify a property’s current status and see what information is available online.  

Many studies and reports are available digitally and can be accessed by clicking the button below. Others may be accessed through the MHT Library. Please visit the library page for current hours, policies, and appointment information, or to seek research assistance from the librarian. 

Types of architectural research reports & studies

Historic contexts

Historic contexts help assess the significance of a property. Contexts often group related historic properties by theme, time period, or location; for example, “African American Schoolhouses in Southern Maryland” or “Modern Architecture in Montgomery County.” 

Historic contexts: 

• Explain patterns of history and how historic properties fit in
• Guide how researchers understand, evaluate, and compare historic places
• Do not automatically include a resource in the Maryland Inventory or National Register 

Multiple Property Documentation Forms

The National Park Service accepts nominations to the National Register of Historic Places for groups of related and historically significant properties. The submissions include a Multiple Property Documentation Form, which explains the common themes, trends, and patterns shared by the properties in the group -- creating associated historic contexts -- plus supporting nominations for specific properties. Researchers can access Multiple Property Documentation Forms and their accompanying nominations in MHT's National Register database. 

Field and research reports 

Field and research reports include a wide variety of architectural studies, including building-specific preservation plans, historic structures reports (HSRs), and final survey reports. 

Preservation plans and historic structures reports 

Preservation plans and HSRs document a building’s history, significance, and condition. Preservation plans typically focus more on the property’s condition and future, while HSRs often include more information about the history and development of the property. Treatment options are often included in both. 

Final survey reports 

Architectural surveys typically produce new or updated Maryland Inventory forms and a final survey report. These reports summarize the historic buildings, districts, and structures included in the survey, as well as: 

• Basic project details, such as who did the work, where and when it took place, and who funded it
• The purpose and methods of the survey
• Historical background and major themes of the survey area
• Findings from fieldwork, with maps and images of the resources identified
• Conclusions and recommendations, including whether properties may be listed in the National Register and what future work is needed
• Sources and an index of all surveyed properties 

Some survey reports contain information about properties not included in the Maryland Inventory or National Register, which may also be useful for researchers.