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guidelines created in the charters put forward by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (or,

ICOMOS), such as the Washington Charter of 1987 and the Lausanne Charter of 1990; an organization which

is strongly associated within UNESCO.

i. The historical significance of the houses should be emphasized above all else and as much of the

existing construction should be preserved and used in any restorations to uphold the integrity of the site.

ii. The story of Mary and Eliza Freeman (and others like them during the period) is the main goals of the

restorations; to relate the testimony of two minority women during the mid- 1800s.

iii. In relation to the above point, “Little Liberia” as a community should also be drawn into the testimony

of the site and the surrounding area with the preservation of the houses and the continuing educational efforts.

In such, it is key to recognize the importance and testimony of the houses is two-fold: 1) there is a historical

significance of “Little Liberia” as a general refuge for runaway slaves, one of the first free communities of

persons of color to the history of the state of Connecticut as well as to the entire United State, and 2) the

Freeman Houses themselves are what happens to be left of such a community, though the individuals of Mary

and Eliza Freeman themselves are uniquely significant in the community because of the achievements and

successes accomplished by both women.

iv. Any future constructions or industrial work within the vicinity of the houses and the area of “Little

Liberia” should be subject to additional regulations to respect the integrity and authenticity of the site. Current

structures and business should be investigated to examine potential negative impact on the sites if restored.

v. Education is the utmost priority for the future of the historical site. Both with the support of the state of

Connecticut and organizations around the United States and the world, the site is a testimony to the history of

African Americans, Native Americans, women, and any minority group.

INTERNATIONAL PROCEDURES

There are five primary stages to be incorporated into UNESCO’s World Heritage list. For a site to

enter even into the first stage, they must have signed the World Heritage Convention to pledge to protect

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