Trails Across America: Grant Funding for Historical Markers That Elevate Trailside History Webinar

Discover how your trail can become a platform for preserving and promoting the unique history of your community. In this one-hour webinar, hosted by Rails to Trails Conservancy and the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, you’ll learn about the Trails Across America marker grant program, which provides fully funded cast-aluminum roadside markers to commemorate historically significant people, places and events along more than 42,000 miles of multiuse trails nationwide.

Susan Hughes will introduce the William G. Pomeroy Foundation and its mission to help communities celebrate their local history through markers grounded in thoroughly vetted, primary source-based research. Amy Kapp will highlight the power of storytelling on trails and how markers can amplify the meaning of place. Together, they will outline the marker grant application process, offer tips for selecting compelling historical subjects and share inspiring examples of recent markers. The workshop will also explore how trailside historical markers foster pride of place, support tourism and preserve local history for future generations. Whether you manage a trail, represent a nonprofit or are passionate about public history, this session will equip you with the guidance and tools to bring your community’s stories to life. ‘

Learning Objectives:

· Become familiar with the William G. Pomeroy Foundation and the purpose of the Trails Across America marker grant program

· Understand what makes a compelling marker subject and a successful application

· Gain insight into the historical documentation and primary source research required

· Explore real-life examples of installed markers and the stories they tell

· Learn how trailside markers contribute to cultural tourism, community engagement and public education

· Identify how to begin the application process and where to go for support