Discusses whether conservation or restoration was the appropriate procedure to follow in preserving the physical facilities at Montpelier, Vermont, United States. A summary of the building history is presented: architecturally it is not significant, but the site is important as an artifact of social history. Preservation is sustaining a building's existing form and integrity. Restoration processes have been exploited by historical biases. Landscape in this instance is deemed as important as the house, the key to the site. Presents a summary of the decision which the National Trust has made in proceeding with the property.