Relationships Among Interpretation, Site Characteristics, and Vandalism

The objective of this study was to identify relationships between vandalism and site specific variables, particularly interpretation at historic sites. Interpretation was the primary focus, but site characteristics and community influence were also studied. Twenty-four sites of historical significance, all located within the Mid-Atlantic Region as defined by the National Park Service, were chosen for the study. On-site inventories and interviews were conducted during the summer of 1987. The focus on interpretation and how it influences the vandalism a site experiences led to a detailed inventory of the interpretation available at the site. The types of interpretation available (e.g., brochure, tour, audiovisual, etc.) were categorized. Placement (i.e., at the visitor center, in the historic structure, or on the grounds) of all interpretive material was also recorded. Specific details of each incident of vandalism (e.g., type of vandalism, cost, location, etc.) the site experienced within the past fiscal year were used to characterize each incident. Site characteristics such as administering agency, acreage, annual visitor count and budget for interpretation were used to classify sites. Frequencies indicated that brochures are the most common form of interpretation and audiovisuals are used to enhance the existing interpretation. Theft was a common form of vandalism, but was greatly deterred by the presence of interpreter led tours. The annual visitor count and acreage were the most influential site characteristics affecting vandalism. Regression analysis, including vandalism as a discriminate function, produced the following results from the data set. Interpreter led tours were associated with deterring vandalism. Larger numbers of visitors led to more vandalism, and overshadowed the deterring effect of interpretation. Self Guiding signs located on the park grounds, as opposed to at the visitors center, were associated with destructive vandalism. The influence of different site characteristics and community variables is also discussed. This thesis infers that interpretation can reduce some types of vandalism, but specific site characteristics must be considered. Interpreters will find the results useful in the interpretive profession; managers will find them helpful in identifying ways a site is susceptible to vandalism.