Communities are invited to share their stories through the placement of a new historical roadside marker. Up to 150 new historic markers will be installed across Colorado in recognition of the state’s 150th anniversary of statehood and the nation’s 250th anniversary of independence.
Developed in partnership with History Colorado and funded by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, the program offers local organizations, historians and residents the opportunity to identify, research and propose sites for historic markers that recognize important moments where they occurred — expanding the stories currently represented in Colorado’s historic marker system and ensuring that more voices and experiences are reflected across the state.
The initiative builds on Colorado’s existing network of markers, many of which were installed between the 1920s and early 2000s. The current initiative will modernize and expand the system while telling inclusive stories of Colorado’s diverse communities, cultures and landscapes. History Colorado will lead this effort as a multi-year legacy program, applying its expertise to guide research, review and implement to ensure the markers accurately, and with integrity, reflect Colorado’s history.
Organizations and communities interested in proposing a historic marker can begin by submitting an interest form and reviewing the required materials on the Commission website, Am250CO150.org. Proposals will be accepted in multiple rounds beginning in 2026 for a 7-year period.
Round 1 Proposal Timeline
- Project submissions due: April 15, 2026
- Notification of selections: Early Summer 2026
- Marker installation begins: Late Summer 2026
Proposals are reviewed through a multi-step process designed to ensure each historical marker is accurate, inclusive and supported by the local community. Community members proposing a new marker submit historical documentation, primary sources and letters of support. A History Colorado review board — made up of historians, state agency representatives and community experts — evaluates each proposal for historical significance, accuracy and feasibility. Proposals approved through this process are then forwarded to the William G. Pomeroy Foundation for final approval. Once approved, the Foundation funds the production and shipping of the historical marker, while the submitting organization coordinates installation at the designated site.
Communities interested in participating can learn more, submit an interest form, and review program guidelines at Am250CO150.org. Individuals and organizations can also explore other signature initiatives and find ways to get involved in the statewide commemoration on the site.
“Historic markers are powerful reminders that history is not confined to museums — it lives in our communities,” says Robin Brown, America 250 – Colorado 150 commissioner. “As we recognize these dual anniversaries, this initiative gives Coloradans the opportunity to bring forward the stories that matter most to their communities and ensure they are shared and remembered for generations to come.”Beginning in 2026, the Historic Marker Program will support the installation of 150 markers that highlight significant people, places and events in Colorado history. Communities, historical societies, Tribal representatives, local governments and organizations are encouraged to submit proposals identifying historically significant sites.
“Something special occurs when you encounter history where it actually happened. It’s often the best place to connect with our shared history,” says Jason Hanson, chief creative officer at History Colorado. “Colorado’s landscapes hold countless stories, and as the Centennial State commemorates its 150th anniversary, History Colorado is proud to support community efforts to share the place-based local stories that shaped our state.”
The initiative is funded by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, a private philanthropic organization based in Syracuse, N.Y., and the nation’s leading supporter of roadside historical marker programs. Through this partnership, the Pomeroy Foundation provides grants that fully fund the fabrication of cast-aluminum historical markers, including the marker, pole, and shipping, removing financial barriers and enabling communities across Colorado to share important local stories through durable markers placed where history happened.
“Historical markers help communities tell the stories that define them, bringing local history to life,” says Bill Pomeroy, founder and chairman of the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. “For more than two decades, the Pomeroy Foundation has fully funded markers nationwide, each held to our gold standard of primary-source research and professional verification. Through our partnership, recognizing Colorado’s history, communities have the exciting opportunity to celebrate and commemorate their own stories.”