Historic Surveys

The Cultural Resources Survey, one of Memphis Heritage's oldest and most important programs, was started more than 15 years ago. The survey was initiated in 1987 to document historic buildings, sites and districts in the City of Memphis and Shelby County and was funded by the Tennessee Historical Commission and the Division of Housing and Community Development. Since its inception, the survey has documented thousands of buildings in the city and the county and has helped to identify dozens of National Register eligible historic districts and buildings, mainly in the inner-city.

The information collected by the survey staff includes a detailed architectural description of each property, photos, maps, and databases. The survey also includes historic research on Memphis neighborhoods, buildings and sites that appear to meet the criteria for listing on the National Register. The Memphis Heritage survey directly or indirectly has assisted in the listing of dozens of Memphis National Register historic districts and sites, most recently Highland Heights and Martin Memorial Temple.

Currently the survey is funded through the Memphis Landmarks Commission, Housing and Community Development, and the Tennessee Historical Commission. The most recent surveys have included Red Acres, the area around Galloway Golf Course, the University District, near the University of Memphis, the Mid Town Medical District, and the 3,000 home area near the Orange Mound Community.