The New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), in partnership with RevolutionNJ, New Jersey’s official 250th commemoration partnership, is launching a limited series of state historical markers for the Semiquincentennial.
This special initiative of the State Historical Marker Program will install markers around the state sharing the whole history of American independence from its origins to the American Revolution to its revolutionary legacy.
“The history of New Jersey belongs to all who reside here, which is why installing historical markers in public spaces is a key legacy project of our 250th programming,” said Lieutenant Governor Tahesha Way, who oversees the NJHC in her capacity as Secretary of State. “By providing the historical context for our present, we can help New Jerseyans better shape their future.”
The location and subject of the markers will be determined through a community-driven process. The NJHC invites counties, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and individuals to submit nominations for the creation and replacement of 50 historical markers across the state. A research assistance webinar will be held on Friday, July 11, at noon. To register, or for additional information about the program, visit bit.ly/NJhistoricalmarkers. Members of the public can also contact NJHC staff at njhc.programs@sos.nj.gov.
“Historical markers support a shared story about a community’s past and offer sources of inspiration, learning, reflection, and local pride,” said Sara Cureton, executive director of the NJHC. “This is why we have focused on making our marker programs community-driven projects.”
In 2009, the New Jersey Legislature designated the NJHC as the stewards of a statewide historical marker program. As part of this legislation, the NJHC was tasked with “establishing a program to encourage public and private organizations around the state to identify and propose site of historical and cultural interest to be recognized by the placement of roadside markers.” In 2024, the program received funding to launch an initiative to commemorate America’s Semiquincentennial.
The goal of the State Historical Marker Program 250th initiative is to explore the whole history of America’s independence from its origins to the American Revolution and its revolutionary legacy. While the initiative is connected to the commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence, proposed markers can address any time period as long as they relate to at least one of the RevolutionNJ themes. More information about RevolutionNJ’s themes can be found at https://RevNJ.org.
Nominations will also be accepted to replace extant and missing state-owned markers from the 20th century. As part of the replacement process, nominated markers will be reviewed for historical accuracy. Nominators will also be given the opportunity to propose new marker text and suggest a new location if desired. All state markers erected in honor of America’s 250th, whether new or replacements, must be supported by historical research to ensure accuracy. The NJHC can provide resources to those seeking assistance with this research and is available to answer questions.
The priority deadline for the submission of a completed nomination is Friday, July 25, at 2 p.m. The first-round deadline for the submission of a completed nomination is Tuesday, August 12, at 2 p.m., and the final deadline for the submission of a completed nomination is Tuesday, October 7.
Submissions are not accepted by paper, mail, or fax and must be submitted online. Applicants are strongly encouraged to read the guidelines before starting the application.
