IHB Now Accepting New IN Historical Marker Topics

Applications for new marker topics are due by Wednesday, July 8.

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - The Indiana Historical Bureau (IHB) is now accepting applications for new state historical marker topics. 

To be considered, topics must "demonstrate statewide significance and be supported with primary source material to be considered."

Marker applications approved in 2020 will be ready for installation and dedication in 2021. IHB encourages applications that focus on:

• Significant people
• Important businesses, organizations, and institutions
• Notable events

IHB will also welcome applications that will commemorate notable anniversaries in 2021. Topics particularly welcome include:

• Semi-centennials (1971)
• 75 year anniversaries (1946)
• Centennials (1921)
• Sesquicentennials (1871)
• 175 year anniversaries (1846)
• Bicentennials (1821)

Applications relating to underrepresented, minority, and ethnic groups in Indiana history are strongly encouraged as the history of these groups is not equally represented in the current collection of Indiana State Historical Markers. 

Due to these uncertain times surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak, the Indiana State Library and Historical Building is currently closed to the public. This means IHB staff will not be able to meet with you in person. However, any questions you may have regarding the marker program or completion of the application can be answered via e-mail.

At this time, Wednesday, July 8, is the deadline to submit an application. 

Find 2020-2021 Marker Application materials at http://in.gov/history/3926.htm.

Marker Guidelines and Procedures for an overview of the marker application process, costs, and information on topic requirements and restrictions can be found at http://www.in.gov/history/2369.htm. 

A Marker Research Checklist that provides suggestions on where to locate primary source material to support the application and many of the repositories and websites listed are here at http://www.in.gov/history/4030.htm. 

Contact Casey Pfeiffer at cpfeiffer@library.in.gov with any questions you may have.