Homage to Dwight Young: The Guru and Ardent Activist of Historic Preservation

After reading Dwight Young’s fifty-four articles that comprise Road Trips Through History, I admit that I had spring in my step. For what seems like years, I have been searching for someone or something to summarize my beliefs of history; someone who looked at historical buildings or documents as more than just “buildings” or “things.” With both relief and happiness, I have found refuge in Young’s prose. Throughout all his articles, Young’s message is certain: that the preservation of various historical items and buildings is essential in our remembering and appreciation of our country’s beginnings.

Whether it is a music studio or a historical courthouse, Young describes the importance of preservation efforts to all things labeled “historical.” His articles provide insight to the complexity of preservation and its ultimate reward of remembrance and nostalgic “remember when’s.” In his article “Battlefields,” Young argues that even what seems only an expanse of land is important to preserve. While there may not be tangible objects or buildings to see on the battlefield, that piece of land allows us to remember and to be warned of the nation’s past mistakes. (18-19) Buildings, says Young, are also important to preserve as they give a community character and they provide tangible links with history. (93)

An important aspect to point out in Young’s writing is his association of emotion with history. In most of his articles, his appreciation for preservation and its activists exudes. While mostly enthusiastic about the subject of preservation, Young also portrays another emotion. In “Past Imperfect,” it is clear through Young’s sarcasm that the act of replicating various historic landmarks frustrates the ardent preservationist. According to Young, destinations such as Las Vegas that replicas of the Eiffel Tower and the Pyramid of Giza call home are detrimental to the actual landmark’s historical importance. (22-23)

Even through his witticisms, Young is able to effectively portray the importance of history to today’s American society. Through preservation, Young argues, the tangible and even intangible aspects of history can encourage remembrance and appreciation from where we came from. As a result, history becomes associated with human emotion, connecting Americans to history in a more meaningful and understanding way. As I read his essays, I imagine Young on his labeled “Preservation 4 Life” soap box while I stand in front of him awed and energized to follow in his footsteps.