Abstract:
Historic districts are an important tool for protecting and preserving the cultural legacy of
the built environment. Unfortunately, recent changes in legislation for several states regarding local
historic districts have revealed that the general public does not recognize the value of historic
districts. Interpretation is a form of communication which facilitates learning by making connections
between people and resources. Comprehensive interpretation uses multiple interpretive methods in
order to reach multiple audiences with messages about the value of historic districts. This study
presents an interpretation model for historic districts made more comprehensive and effective with
the addition of digital media components. Digital media, including websites, blogs, audio, video,
social media and mobile apps, have changed the way we communicate on a daily basis. In order to
reach as many audiences as possible, interpretation should include digital channels. Digital media
interpretation methods allow for interpretation both on and off site and give audiences means to
participate in the interpretation process by contributing to an online dialog. This thesis presents a
case study on applying digital interpretation techniques to a recently nominated mid-20th-century
historic district, Layne Crest, located in Muncie, Indiana.
