William G. Pomeroy Foundation accepting final 2025 grant applications through Oct. 13
SYRACUSE, N.Y.—Communities across 15 states, including New York, are invited to apply for fully funded roadside markers through the William G. Pomeroy Foundation’s Legends & Lore® grant program. The final 2025 grant round is open through Monday, Oct. 13, 2025.
The Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program commemorates the rich folklore, traditions, and storytelling that shape a community’s identity. Grants cover the entire cost of a marker, pole, and shipping. For complete program guidelines, marker criteria, and details about applying online, visit: https://www.wgpfoundation.org/history/legends-lore/.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions, tribal nations, and local, state, or federal government entities in the following states: Alabama, Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia.
Roadside markers educate the public, inspire local pride, and amplify the stories that make each place unique. They strengthen a sense of belonging and can attract cultural tourism, all while preserving local heritage for future generations. Examples of subjects recognized by Legends & Lore markers include Champy the lake monster, the legend of John Henry, and the story of Betsy Dowdy’s ride.
After the current marker grant round, communities will have their next opportunity to apply when the 2026 grant round opens Monday, March 9.
Since its launch in 2015, the program has funded nearly 200 Legends & Lore markers across multiple states. Other Pomeroy Foundation marker programs highlight themes such as food history, transportation, National Register sites, and New York State history.
About the William G. Pomeroy Foundation®
The William G. Pomeroy Foundation is a private, philanthropic organization located in Syracuse, N.Y. As the nation’s leading funder of historical markers, the Pomeroy Foundation has awarded nearly 2,900 grants for markers and bronze plaques in 49 states and Washington, D.C. Learn more about the Foundation’s mission at wgpfoundation.org.
# # #
Media Inquires
Steve BodnarAssociate Director, Strategic Marketing
William G. Pomeroy Foundation
315-913-4060 | steve@wgpfoundation.org