Since the earliest days of our nation, the achievements of chemists and chemical engineers have helped to shape American history. Tangible testaments to these achievements exist in almost every part of our country. Some examples come easily to mind: the house in Northumberland, Pennsylvania, where Joseph Priestley spent his last years, or the Seaford, Delaware, plant where DuPont first produced nylon. But in most towns and regions, only a few chemical professionals know that a significant chemical landmark lies nearby. The larger community of neighbors, educators, journalists, civic leaders, legislators, and students is unlikely to know it exists.

The National Historic Chemical Landmarks Program (NHCLP) of the American Chemical Society (ACS) is designed to bring U.S. chemical history to life. Under this program, the ACS confers landmark status on seminal achievements in the history of chemistry and chemical technology. Such achievements may have practical applications or they may be concepts or theories that are intellectual milestones in chemical history.

The NHCLP is administered by the ACS Office of Communications. But the organization and implementation of the program rest in the hands of ACS local sections, divisions, and committees, whose responsibility it is to identify prospective landmarks in their geographic or disciplinary areas and nominate them for landmark status.

Undertaking an NHCLP nomination is no small task; extensive research and documentation may be required to demonstrate the eligibility of a prospective landmark. If the nomination is approved, the work of the local section, division, or committee is not over. Further efforts and financial obligations lie ahead, among them, the responsibility to stage a designation ceremony, subsidize an informational brochure, and communicate with key audiences. You won't have to go it alone: The NHCLP Advisory Committee and the ACS Office of Communications will be there to help you. Nevertheless, we urge you to read this guide carefully before you consider a nomination.

An ACS landmark designation brings many benefits to the participating local sections and divisions. For those involved in the nominating process, it is a great learning experience, an opportunity to strengthen collegial ties with fellow chemists, and a source of well-deserved pride. For chemists and chemical engineers in the area, it is a lasting reminder of their scientific and technical heritage.

A landmark designation serves as a centerpiece for public outreach. The NHCLP plaque is a signpost; it tells residents, visitors, and travelers that the sciences of chemistry and chemical engineering have helped build America. The unveiling ceremonies and attendant activities bring visitors, including reporters and camera crews, to the door. Long-term outreach activities make the landmark a continuing focus of community attention and may well inspire students to pursue an interest in science.

The material on our Web site was written to help you navigate the process of an NHCLP nomination and take best advantage of a successful designation. Welcome to the program, and good luck in your endeavor!

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