• Demonstrate statewide significance
• Be substantiated with primary source documentation
  • Consult this Primary Source Sampler for examples of types of primary sources that might help as you complete your application.
  • Download a copy of our Research Checklist. This list of resources is the checklist IHB researchers use when starting a new research project. It includes links to digital resources as well as national, state, and regional repositories. Trouble accessing checklist? Click here.

• Marker texts are accurate, diverse, and provide historical context,
• Markers are installed at appropriate sites, and
• Necessary permissions have been obtained

• IHB staff will carefully review every application submitted; the number and quality of 2024 applications submitted will be a factor in determining the number of applications approved to move forward.
• IHB staff performs much of the final research and editing required for the marker; however, the applicant must provide reliable, locally-available primary source materials for each point on a marker. A successful marker application involves collaboration between IHB and marker applicants.

Topic Priorities for 2024-2025 Markers:

• IHB encourages applications for topics that will celebrate notable anniversaries in 2025.  For instance, topics that are celebrating semi-centennials (1975), 75 year anniversaries (1950), centennials (1925), sesquicentennials (1875), 175 year anniversaries (1850), bicentennials (1825), etc. are particularly welcome.  
• IHB guidelines stipulate that no individual may be the topic of a marker until twenty years after his or her death.  Thus, notable Hoosiers who died in 2005 or earlier can be application candidates for markers placed in 2025. It is at the discretion of the Indiana Library and Historical Board, upon the recommendation of IHB, to make any exceptions to this guideline.
• IHB is also giving priority to topics relating to marginalized communities, including historically underrepresented racial, ethnic, or immigrant groups and women's history in Indiana. This subject area has been given priority because the history of these groups is not equitably represented in the current collection of Indiana State Historical Markers
  • Strong examples of recent markers that meet current criteria and priorities: Mary Garrett Hay,  Harriette Bailey Conn, Felrath Hines, Little Syria on the Wabash, and Origins of Indiana Pride.

Cost of an Indiana State Historical Marker

An Indiana State Historical Marker for the 2024-2025 application cycle will cost $3,300. The applicant (an individual or an organization/institution) must raise the full cost of an Indiana State Historical Marker.

We Want to Hear from You

Submit your feedback on the state historical marker program.