05/19/2022
The Historic Marker Committee of The Landmark Society is launching a new initiative called “Make Your Mark.”
The mission of the “Make Your Mark” initiative is to connect the Rochester community with its past by using markers to make diverse histories visible on the public landscape.
“There are few historic markers in Rochester,” said Gerald Gamm, Co-Chair of Historic Markers Committee. “Our vision is to erect site-appropriate markers across the city to raise awareness of the fact that history and preservation belong to all of us—in every neighborhood of the city and, eventually, throughout the region.”
The committee is seeking ideas for future markers in the City of Rochester and plans to engage with community members, neighborhood groups, organizations, libraries, and schools to identify sites of local significance.
“We value the contributions and memories of all of the city’s diverse residents,” said Hannah Davis, Co-Chair of Historic Markers Committee. “We want to bring attention to natural and cultural resources while emphasizing the stories, memories, and experiences of all the people who have helped shape our city. We appreciate that many sites have a layered history, and therefore in marking them, we will use voices from different time periods to illuminate each era of significance. We plan to provide ways for people to engage with marker sites in a variety of ways, such as a connected smartphone app and website.”
Do you have an idea for a markers site? Do you know of a park, building, event, person, or other place of significance to the Rochester community that doesn’t currently have a marker? It doesn’t necessarily have to be “historic;” recent history is okay too. The group is especially interested in drawing attention to underrepresented groups and places and events with a multi-faceted history. A form to submit ideas can be found at landmarksociety.org/make-your-mark.
The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc. is one of the oldest and most active preservation organizations in America, serving nine Western New York counties. Formed in 1937, The Landmark Society continues to protect the unique architectural heritage of our region and promote preservation and planning principles that foster healthy and sustainable communities. For additional information about The Landmark Society, visit www.landmarksociety.org. The Landmark Society programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.
