I posted a note in one of my markers (to the editor) suggesting a new category for markers and I thought about it afterwards and thought I'd mention it here on the forums for others to contribute to. I posted two new markers, one for the Boston Molassas flood (#40677) and one still pending for the Cocoanut Grove fire (#40673). During my preparation for the posting of these two places, I noticed that with all the other categories, we don't have a "Man-made Disaster" category. In thinking about it, I'm not sure that this name is appropriate so I thought I'd see if anyone else has any good ideas for how to handle something like this. I know there's more markers like this out there (Floods, fires, etc.) and I wonder what others think about this. Just getting the conversations going. :) Thanks for your time!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Are we speaking about Environmental disasters, Structural defaults? I chose an "event" category. Might depend on how the markers percieve the subject. i.e. a one time event, notable for a certain date.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I've just renamed the "Natural Disasters" category to "Disasters". This covers both kinds. Bill Pfingsten made the suggestion and it was an easy one to implement.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

In response to the May 15th Marker of the Week request, this Nevada State Historical Marker (No. 188) is located near Needles, California. Bill Kirchner of Tucson, Arizona found this marker in March of last year. It was placed here in 1974 to commemorate the boundary survey done by Allexey W. Von Schmidt, U. S. Astronomer and Surveyor. While surveying the official boundary between the states of Nevada and California in 1872/73, he was a little off. The actual boundary is ¼ of a mile north of the marker. There is also a California Registered Historical Landmark Marker (No. 859) at this same site. California Registered Historical Landmark No. 859 – Von Schmidt State Boundary: http://www.hmdb.org/Marker.asp?Marker=29467 Nevada State Historical Marker No. 188-Von Schmidt State Boundery

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

In 2010 the State of Texas erected a monument in Corinth, Mississippi honoring her Texas native sons who served at Corinth and its surrounding environs during the Western Campaign of 1862. Karl Stelly of Gettysburg, PA entered this marker on May 22, 2011. Texas Memorial

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Syd. not on topic, but many thanks for the awesome review of El Dorado Veteran's memorials! I saw some 3 or 4 years ago, but not able to upload then. You've covered them well!! [see also] Sept. 11 -- Sacramento?wait 24 hrs.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Could anyone help me with information on a Charles C Clarke ,who I believe died in the Civil War. Wife Martha Stevenson ,daughter Cordelia. Thanks EP

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

If your photos are geotagged, there is no need to enter latitude and longitude when you are adding a new marker. Leave those  Portion of Picasa Screen fields blank. When you upload your first photo, the geotag will be read and the latitude and longitude will be automatically filled in. And now, there is a easy, painless, and free way to geotag your photos on your Windows or Apple computer. If you are not already using it, download a free copy of Picasa from picasa.com. Picasa is a photo organizer-and-editor from Google. It has no advertizing and it is real easy to use. It is probably easier to use and more comprehensive than the software that came with your camera. I've been using it since 2006 and have yet to find a better photo organizer, free or not. A new feature in the latest version if Picasa can geotag your photos. Open a map in the “Places” panel, move a pushpin to the marker’s location, and click OK to geotag the photo. That’s all there is to it. Click for step-by-step instructions. Picasa embeds the latitude and longitude map coordinates in the photo file. It does not tell you what they are, it just hides them in the photo. When you upload the geotagged photo to this database, the coordinates will be automatically pulled from the photo and stored in the database. You’ll never need to write down and type in latitude and longitude again.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Good tip! I just tried it. I see that after doing that, I can click on "Full Details Page" and it displays the latitude and longitude along with size and copyright info.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This very informative 130-page 2011 Thesis written by Joseph Bayless while at Virginia Commonwealth University recounts the o 1929 First Edition rigins of the Virginia historical marker program. Here is the abstract: “The thesis analyzes the origins and the formative period of Virginia’s historical marker program. It shows that historical markers were critical to the success of Harry Flood Byrd’s administration and his Commission on Conservation and Development. The thesis also examines how Virginia’s marker program set the standard for roadside commemoration across the entire United States. Lastly, the work appraises the influence of Dr. Hamilton James Eckenrode, his pioneering methods of historical commemoration, and his central role in the success of Virginia’s marker program.”

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

You might also like http://xroads.virginia.edu/~ma04/kane/thesis/markers.htm on the University of Virginia's website.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Here is an article about a plaque with the title "Near Here." Clarity it may lack, but there’s something about this plaque

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I recently found an album of old pictures of my family. In it, there is a photo showing my ggg-grandfather George Garwood (b. 1825-d.1909) far left, and his son William in the center. They are standing upon a very precarious looking rock and in the foreground is a historical marker that appears to begin "Battle of W???own" I know it's a long-shot, but I figured that maybe someone here knows this location. It is atop a mountain or large hill, with a river down below. Thanks for any help you can give. Brenda (Garwood) Smith brendaj1964@gmail.com

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Thanks to "anyjazz65" on "Flickr" (see attached tag) looks like your photo was taken at "Umbrella Rock" in Tennessee. Said "anyjazz65" has a number of items about the location on the attached 'tag'. ((This exact marker shown in the photo ("Battle of Wauhatchie") is NOT in HMdb. If the Historical Marker is still there - - talk about a marker listing ! ! Anyone up to the climb? Not - me!)) "anyjazz65" on "Flickr" ::

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hey i have one just like it with my Great aunts and uncle's

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I did just (January 2) did a Google search for Umbrella Rock, Point Lookout, TN." The first return Here was an eBay listing, with three pages of postcards of Umbrella Rock. Most were the same view, but it's clear that this was a popular subject for postcards of all types (colorized, Real Photo Post Cards, etc.) In the first postcard, it appears that there were at least three marker plaques at the site.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Point your phone's browser to   hmdb.org/a   and if your phone is willing to cough up your location, you'll know what markers already in the database are around you. More info Here. This HMdb feature has been around for a while, but you had to type in your latitude and longitude manually. Now it will ask your phone for your location using the relatively new HTML 5 geolocation method. Only browsers on iPhone 3+, Android 2+ and Windows Phone 7.5+ are known to be able to respond automatically (after asking your permission). On other phones you'll still have to enter your latitude and longitude yourself with the keyboard. P.S. This would be a great way to get coordinates for a new marker you are photographing, but you can't rely on it. Sometimes the phone will provide location for the cell phone tower instead of your true location. There is no way to tell how accurate it is at any given time.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

C'est cool, no?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

There is a new link on the black right margin—the one on your screen right now—below the search button: Markers Near You. Click it to see a map showing markers near your location. It tries to use he same HTML 5 mechanism I told you about in the November 27 post. But if it fails, it falls back to the less precise method of finding out where your Internet Service Provider (or cell phone company) says your IP address is located. Sometimes it's accurate, and sometimes it's not. Even on desktops and laptops, Internet Explorer 9 can provide location information, when you give permission. Let me know by email if you have trouble with it.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

My great, great, great unclcle Capt John Cussons, VADC to Brig. Gen E M Law was a member, and for some time secretary, of the rebel thespians. On the marker board that shows a copy of a handbill dated 7th October 1863. I believe my gggu might be named on it, but even zooming onto the handbill, I can't read the text. I really would like to get a readable copy of it. Can you help please?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Relative to note # 408 I would be looking for a state(s)with a structure similar to Vermont in their Agency of Commerce & Community Development, available at: Vermont Agency of Commerce and Community Development

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have been going through "Links & Books" to locate states which use their tourism and marketing departments to oversee public historic markers. If anyone can highlight states that use this model it would be helpful.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

In Catherine Bush’s play a modern-day couple retraces Robert E. Lee’s final march using historical markers, while in parallel almost 150 years earlier General Lee and his army journey to Appomattox. The play was commissioned by the Barter Theatre of Abingdon, Virginia, and is playing there through November 12th. If you find yourself in southwestern Virginia, western North Carolina, southern West Virginia, or eastern Tennessee and Kentucky, dinner and this play might be an interesting way to pass an evening. Show up early to see charming and historic Abingdon in daylight. The Barter Theatre itself is historic and sports its own historical marker. They bartered “ham for Hamlet” when they first opened in 1933. Search for “Barter Theatre” in this database and check it out. The Road to Appomattox at the Barter Theatre

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

(Could this open the door to other groups suing to correct or change marker texts?) The Full Story from the "Austin American-Statesman"

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

History in Carlisle is getting a technological upgrade. With the new Benjamin Rush Wayside Marker leading the way, more and more historical markers in the area will feature "Quick Response" codes that will connect users to even more history through their cell phones. Read more: The Rest of the Story

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have a marker (and location) that refers to a subject 3/4mile away from the marker itself. Also, there's two more markers enroute to this subject each of which is a reasonable distance away from each other. So, I have four locations to record in order to provide proper directions to the marker and its subject. What's the right way to do this? Two of the markers aren't at all "Historic" themselves, they're just clarifications to the end subject. Opinions? Suggestions? Rules from the editors? :) Thanks.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The rule of thumb is to give each historical marker its own page (and on its page record its location). The historic subject itself does not get its own page but you can note on the marker's page where it is in free-form text (including Latitude and Longitude if you would like) in the 'Optional Comments on the Subject Described in the Marker' field. Or in the sub-caption of one of the photographs of the subject. The question remaining is, do those enroute markers qualify as historical markers in their own right? If they are just a name and and directions, then no. In this case, put their photograph in the qualifying marker's page and use the photo caption to report their location. But if they repeat or otherwise state the historical information about the subject, then they get their own page.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

As time and travel permits, I am building a public Civil War Trails GPS file that can be placed on a Garmin or TomTom. The file is located here for download: http://www.poi-factory.com/node/20069 I also hope that others, as they run across these historical markers, will email (accessed through the POI Factory Website) the GPS coordinates to me. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- You may also be interested in this GPS file: North Carolina Historical Markers http://www.poi-factory.com/node/9879 I do NOT maintain the Historical Marker file above. =================================================== CasualObservations

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I just wanted to let everyone know that the latest Next Exit History apps are now available through iTunes and the Android Ma iPhone Screenshot rketplace. Next Exit History teamed up with the HMDB last year and you can now find almost every entry in the HMDB database through your mobile phone. The apps are completely free and we would love to get your feedback about we can make them better. We are constantly adding new features in an attempt to make the user experience as good as possible. Hope you guys get a chance to check them out. iTunes Store Link

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

A new series, "Top of the Town" in Northwest Washington, D.C., in the area of Nebraska Avenue, Reno Road, American University , and I noticed one at Ward Circle. Passing thru my old stomping grounds along Wisconsin Ave. near Tenleytown, Mass Ave. Maybe some around the National Cathedral( BTW Highest window in DC...top of the town) Too bad I was preoccupied... but heads up to you guys in the area. A good Sunday field trip from Northern Va. or Oxen Hill

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The Southside Neighborhood Association is searching for a group to take on the project of repainting some historic markers installed 25 years ago. News Story

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am not referring to the copyright of the pictures of markers at this website - I have seen the copyright regarding pictures posted here but I am wondering - is someone able to film historical markers and use them say in a tv show for profit/commercial purposes? Again - I am not referring to using pictures here but if I were to go out and film and or take original pictures of my own- am I able to show them on tv for commercial purposes?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The matter of using a marker for a commercial purposes depends on the agency that erected and owns the marker. First check with the agency that pertains to the marker in question, they might ask for a fee in return. See link pertaining to Pennsylvania's rule on commercial use of historical markers. If its a monument or marker over hundred years old, I doubt the organization that erected it will be sending you a cease and desist letter. PHMC Historical Marker Image Request

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This marker, in Lewisburg, Marshall County, Tennessee, does not appear to be in the database. The Marshall County Tribune is very specific about it copyright so I won't cut and paste, but there is information on how to obtain a state Directory of Tennessee Historical Markers for $3. See Mising Marker Story for story and information.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

"Virginia Pilot" about markers and Henrietta Lack marker: http://hamptonroads.com/2011/07/highway-marker-isnt-much-show-lacks-contribution WIBC-FM, 93.1 in Indianapolis: Washington Park, Birth of Black Baseball http://www.wibc.com/news/Story.aspx?id=1461472 Philly-burbs.com: Haunting Histories http://www.phillyburbs.com/lifestyle/travel/eastern-state-penitentiary-to-host-haunting-histories/article_a07a09f4-b3ba-11e0-ae7d-0019bb30f31a.html Akron.com: Shaw Cemetery marker approved http://www.akron.com/akron-ohio-community-news.asp?aID=13038 Smyrna-ViningsPatch: Civil War Breastworks Commemorated at Lovett Exhibit: http://smyrna.patch.com/articles/civil-war-breastworks-commemorated-at-lovett-exhibit

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This short article discusses new markers that are being placed across Georgia to recognizing the Civil War history of long-ignored groups such as women, blacks and Southerners loyal to the Union. Markers show neglected Civil War history in Ga.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I wonder if anybody might know what is done with the visitor logs that have been at the base of this monument (I presume since its erection in 1958)? Are they stored somewhere by the Park Service? Thanks in advance for any help with this question.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

While the Pennsylvania Historic and Museum Commission was busy erecting distinctive blue and gold monopole historical  marker "Mandata, named for Indian girl who lived where the town is now located. Founded 1880." s throughout the state early in the 20th century, the Pennsylvania Department of Highways was also busy erecting distinctive blue and gold keystone-shaped place name markers on the same roads. Called "keystone markers," anyone who has traveled Pennsylvania's back roads has seen them. They announce the name of the town, and typically also briefly explain why or how the town was named. Today they are orphans. The Department of Highways no longer erects or maintains the cast metal markers. Some of the ones that remain are in sad shape. They are not historical markers and therefore cannot be included in this database, so I wanted to alert you to another database where they are being catalogued. KeystoneMarkerTrust.org has over 700 markers and their locations. More than just an online catalog, The Keystone Marker Trust is dedicated to the preservation of existing keystone markers and to facilitating the erection of new ones. Take a look, and if you are interested and able, lend a hand. (Photo courtesy of the Keystone Marker Trust.)

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

My dad's name is mentioned here. His is the last name listed under Civil War. His name should be listed under World War, because he was a World War II. veteran. His name is Edward L. Welton. The marker on his grave looks really nice. Thank you. Middlebuury Veterans Memorial

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have added a note to the marker page regarding your dad. We strive for accuracy in transcribing marker text. If anyone at the unveiling noticed the error, imagine their dismay! Thanks for the information so I could add a note. It makes the marker even more interesting.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Frank Gray, reporter for the Fort Wayne Journal Gazette, interviewed our intrepid Veedersburg Indiana correspondent Al Wolf by telephone last week and wrote up this excellent article titled “Historic task for retired teacher.” Take a look.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Most HMdb contributors living in Massachusetts are familiar with the Massachusetts Tercentenary Markers located along highway The Old Oaken Bucket (Scituate,MA) s and local roads in the Commonwealth. The markers were commissioned by the legislature in 1930 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of The Massachusetts Bay Colony. A marker series was established during 2010 under Massachusetts Bay Colony—Tercentenary Commission Markers(http://www.hmdb.org/results.asp?SeriesID=100). This courtesy is greatly appreciated since the Commonwealth of Massachusetts; unlike many other states with similar castings, does not maintain a website to promote historical markers. This documentation effort has been promoted through the Massachusetts Historical Commission and the UMASS Boston, Massachusetts Studies Network. I would encourage all HMdb contributors to get out their cameras and join in the effort to document the remaining markers in their area. A complete catalog of the markers was printed in 1930 under the title; Historical Markers Erected by Massachusetts Bay Colony Tercentenary Commission (1930), available from The Internet Archive at http://www.archive.org/details/historicalmarker00mass.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Galveston contributor Sam Collins III had an article in the Tuesday Daily News of Galveston County (Texas) paper calling on students out on summer vacation to canvas Galveston County for markers and submit them to HMdb.org. It it titled Locating historical sites a great summer project. He writes that there are 273 markers in the county but only 28 of them are in the database. Let's see how many more are added this summer! This article was brought to my attention by Al Wolf, our intrepid correspondent from Veedersburg Indiana. Thanks, Al.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Our new Dell PowerEdge T410 arrived yesterday. Our current server, rushed into service November 26, 2007, has served us well for over three years but has been slowing down a bit as of late because of the growing size of the database, and will be out of photo space later this year. That, and its extended warranty expired last year. Like a kid with a new toy I promptly took it out of its box, wrestled it up to its perch (it's heavy!), plugged it in, turned it on, and have been marveling at its speed, capacity, and additional capabilities. It has 3 times the hard drive space, 6 times the usable RAM (for speed), and its Intel Xenon processor is 3 times faster than the one in our current server. Our old server was getting RAM-bound, so I'm hoping that the new server will have the capacity to serve more than 3 times the number of simultaneous users than the old one. The database should be able to exceed 100,000 markers before we run out of space on this server. As for new capabilities, it has the latest 64 bit Microsoft Server and SQL Server software, and the latest plug-ins from Persits, so there will be plenty to explore. I had to give up on getting the database to speak marker text a few years ago because Server 2003 software was not up to the task, so I will be finding out if Server 2008 software can handle it. Will the new Persits photo assist software stop truncating latitude and longitude minutes? We'll soon find out. I've been configuring it for our requirements and there is a good chance I can place it in service this weekend. This will require about half an hour of down time. Stay tuned.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

We are now running on the new server. Does it feel faster?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

In these days of increased security and heightened scrutiny, I thought I'd post this little list of references discussing the rights of people to take photos of public places. I don't presume to tell anyone what is right or wrong nor do I presume to represent any legal authority. I post this list in the interest of helping others void problems. Common sense should always be used and caution is the watchword. Here's some specific websites that I've been reading to learn from and some include downloadable pages that you can print out to keep with you: http://tinyurl.com/7x98l http://tinyurl.com/cr8ao http://tinyurl.com/6g4mhpx http://tinyurl.com/2fue4x3 http://tinyurl.com/6jflzud For those in the UK: http://tinyurl.com/6gdkvu6 A cool and handy gray card set that I've ordered: http://tinyurl.com/2cdpxrn And the search I used to find these sites: http://tinyurl.com/66g6uh9 Good luck all and safe shooting.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Category Editor Syd Whittle alerted me to a website where getting latitude and longitude off a map could not be any simpler. It is one of iTouchMap's online utilities. You'll find it here Itouchmap.com/latlong.html 1. Type in, for example, “dennison & goodale st, columbus oh", click "go" and a pushpin will appear where the streets cross. 2. Resize your map if necessary, then move your pushpin to where the marker is located. 3. Remember to click on the pushpin once it is in the correct position to display the text balloon that shows the new latitude and longitude. 4. Then copy both numbers with your mouse and keyboard, return to the HMdb page and paste them both in the latitude field. 5. Finally, cut (ctrl-C) the second number from where you just deposited it and paste it into the longitude field. You can leave the comma that separated the latitude number from the longitude number dangling in either field, HMdb.org will ignore it.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Does anyone know of the existence or source for a Google Map showing pin markers for all Historical Marker Locations? My wife and I are Full-Time RVers and traveling constantly. This would be an awesome feature for locating and spotting markers while traveling. Perhaps the pin marker could contain the inscription that is on the historical marker so you don't have to stop at each one. Stopping and pulling over in a 60'rig is most times impossible. Thanks, B.W.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am sorry to report that nothing that large is available today. We are at 37,000 markers and counting and the Google Map system we use on this website, which is browser-based, would choke your browser if we sent it that many pushpins to display. We are working on something else, but have no dates or additional information to convey at this time.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The Madison Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership in the preservation of important historic places in greater Madison, Wisconsin through advocacy, education and technical assistance. In a recent Blog Post by the Trust's Executive Director, he mentioned HMdb as a source for information about Madison landmarks. After reading a prior post about funding for additional markers for Madison landmarks, I told him about HMdb and my efforts to visit all 178 landmarks and add them to the database.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

To date we have cataloged more Civil War historical markers in this database than any other category. There are still plenty Fort Sumter Is Attacked more markers to find, but the U.S. Civil War category will be one of the largest if not the largest when substantially all U.S. historical markers are finally entered. This is no surprise. The “War Between the States” is still the deadliest conflict in our history and it occurred on U.S. soil, so there is plenty to commemorate and interpret using historical markers. From the beginning of hostilities 150 years ago today to Robert E. Lee’s surrender almost exactly 5 years later, the war and the reconstruction that followed significantly changed our country’s culture and politics. The Washington Post today published in a 22 page broadsheet section entitled “Civil War 150”—available online here WashingtonPost.com/civilwar without the impressive layout—a comprehensive collection of articles on the war in general and its start in particular. The state of West Virginia took out a two page ad in the centerfold entitled “A State Born from a Nation Torn” highlighting their Civil War Trails series of historical markers. States, cities and towns also took out ads to remind readers interested in visiting Civil War sites that their welcome mats are out. A list of events and commemorations in the states surrounding Washington, with admission prices when charged, takes up five pages. Other newspapers throughout the country are doing the same, and some are using HMdb photographs to illustrate their supplements. There is a lot of history out in the fresh air, and this year in many places there are experts standing by to interpret it for you. So skip those overcrowded big-city museums on your outings this year, pack a box lunch, and follow a Civil War Trail or two. Or make up your own route of markers—Civil War or not—with the help of this database. Hit the road and use all your senses: read the markers and see for yourself what they are talking about; listen to the sounds and hear the stories; smell the countryside and the gunpowder; touch the monuments and the cannon; taste great food prepared on the spot; get drenched in an unexpected thunderstorm. It’s a great way to not only discover history, but to see the real present-day America, shaped by the Civil War.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Thanks for the poetic "call to arms" -- I might just take the day off and hunt down a few markers!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Interesting story regarding the difference in attention the North and South play on their Civil War history. In North,Civil War sites, Events Long 'Forgotten'

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The "monument honoring one of the first official Civil War black units" mentioned in the "In North, Civil War sites, Events Long 'Forgotten'" article must be the "Memorial to Robert Gould Shaw and the Massachusetts 54th Regiment" marker. I wonder how many other markers referenced in the article are in HMdb...

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I thought historical marker aficionados might be interested in a couple curious markers I came across (even though they're not HMdb-worthy). It looks like I can only upload one photo per post, so I'll start with this one (which a friend told me he saw while riding his bicycle). It's on a rural road, in front of a garden patch, and appears to be part spoof, part hyperbole, and part hard feelings ("more sour grapes than corn" as one of our editors observed). Here's the text: On this site, for as long as the neighbors have known, the Doyle's unselfishly grew an annual sweet corn crop which they shared with all who passed. This was the sweet corn of legends and who tried it became great fans and waited in hushed anticipation each season for the harvest. Now the field stands farrow and for reasons unknown, future generations will never know or experience the wonder of this corn. Many appeals were made, and fell on deaf ears (not sweet corn ears) as the landlord made his decision and offered not a word in explanation. Pause here and weep with all who knew and loved this corn.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Here's the other one. It's boldly labeled "Historical Marker," but then relates nothing that's really historical. While expressing appreciation to public servants is all well and good, I'm not sure how it's a "Historical Marker." Here's the text: We are dedicating this marker in loving memory [?] and deepest appreciation to the men and women who have with zeal and dedication served the City of Madison. Erected by the American Revolution Bicentennial Commission of Madison, Wisconsin November 28, 1976.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Thought I'd share a couple shots of some spoofy signs I've come across. I have others like these - I'm sure some of you out there have found markers like these too. They remind me not to take this marker fetish too seriously. This one in Hanover, Maryland reads: "On this site in 1896 nothing exciting happened. Hanover Hysterical Society."

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Someone in Hanover has a sense of humor. The photo above (nothing exciting happened) was taken in 2002. When I went by that location again in 2008, the sign was gone, perhaps because it had been located on railroad property. But now across the street was this sign next to your basic residential water retention (detention?) pond. It reads: "Lake Hanover. Fishing. Boating. Swimming."

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This marker, on a historic building at Pioneer Village, by the Three Lakes (Wisconsin) Historical Society, reads: "On this site on Feb. 14, 1876 at high Noon absolutely nothing happened."

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Sometimes local and state governments can also show their sense of humor as well as hint on local “small town politics.” The residents of White Pines, California, a small former logging company town located next to the larger small mountain town of Arnold erected this sign.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This sign, erected by the State of California, is located in Coloma at the James Marshall Gold Discovery Site State Historic Park. It informs travelers driving the short .5 miles on the narrow road from Highway 49 to the James Marshall Monument that the road is not only a state highway, but it’s also the shortest!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I want to voice my thought that the second marker mentioned in William Toman's posting, which was created during the Bicentennial, is worthy of inclusion in the database. I can understand that the HMD cannot leave the doors wide open to anything/everything that might come close to falling into the historical marker category -- the database would become too disparate and overwhelming -- but this marker is itself an object created in a particular historical moment, when Americans were looking back on their past with gratitude and pride and thus its creation and placement in 1976 trumps the fact that specific names were not listed, as is the case with most markers, memorials and monuments. The marker thus remembers the people who came before, and now, more than 30 years later, we remember that period and those people as well.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Interesting perspective, Laura. I assume the healthy debate over what constitutes a historical marker will continue as long as there is an HMdb. By the way, the marker made it into the database through the back door, as a related item for the "Olin Terrace" marker (which is the terrace on which the "Historical Marker" sits). No such luck for the corn marker, which actually may be historical (though a candidate for the "Believe it or not" series).

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Rewriting History With a Wink is a page on the Utne Reader site that deals with provocative "historical" markers as a "kind of public art." See the link on this page to the artist's site and to a site for "Lies Across America: What Our Historic Sites Get Wrong." Thankfully, HMdb avoids that controversy by presenting the marker "as is," with commentary as deemed appropriate by the membership.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

HMdb.org correspondents can now prepare compact lists of markers with the new Create Lists page. This often-requested capability is now ready, just in time for spring hunting season. You'll find the link to this new page at the top of the More Search Options page or at the bottom of the home page. With this page you can download files that lists marker titles and their locations. Then with Excel or another spreadsheet program you can sort it any way you want, remove columns you don't need, and print out checklists to take with you. Of course, it can only show you markers already in the database. Your job is to find the ones that are not on your printout! And I'm sure you'll find other uses for these lists. Please let me know if you run into any trouble with the new page or if you have suggestions on how to improve this new feature.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am writing regarding the Furley Hall Marker. I have some old photos from the 1930s or 40s showing some of the out buildings of Furley Hall. Anyone interested, please contact me. Furley Hall Marker

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

May I ask how you came across the photographs of my ancestors home? I am overly interested... William and Deborah Corse are my ancestors.. their daughter Esther is my G-G Grandmother. Laura Cooper Caterski@aol.com

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Please write to me about Furley...

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am very interested in your photographs... my family owned Furley Hall once... I have photographs I can share if you are interested in seeing them... please write back... I saw your posting the same day you first posted... I have tried to contact you since then... My G-G-G Grandfather William Corse bought Furley from the Bowley family after the Revolutionary War. Esther Corse, William and Deborahs daughter is/was my G-G Grandmother... her daughter Deborah my g-grandmother and her daughter Lucy my grandmother...

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have been waiting for a reply... but my family once owned Furley Hall.. Deborah and William Corse, their daughter My G-G-Grandmother Esther (Hettie) Corse Janney grew up there. Please write to me... If you are interested in a few pictures yourself I will share some. I posted my G-G Grandmothers picture on Furley Halls page... Caterski@aol.com

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Ms. Kipp, I grew up very near Furley Hall and have had a consuming interest in the site since those days. I would greatly appreciate if you could contact me about getting copies of your photos. Thank you very much. Jim Weller

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The US Internal Revenue Service allows individuals to take 14¢ "per mile driven in service of a charitable organization" as a deduction off of their income when calculating their income taxes. If HMdb.org became a charitable organization officially recognized as such by the IRS would our Contributing Correspondents be able to take the deduction? Its not easy (or cheap) to become an official charitable organization, or to maintain the status. Lawyers and accountants need to be hired and regular meetings need to be held and documented. Even getting this question answered may require a lawyer and a petition to the IRS. Just the expense of getting this accomplished would dwarf the money spent for our server and internet connection. What are your thoughts? What do you know about "Section 501(c)(3) Organizations"? I don't know about you, but I put in a lot of miles chasing down markers, and although I thoroughly enjoy it and don't begrudge the cost of gas and wear and tear on my car, the thought of taking 14 cents a mile off my taxes catches my interest. Requirements - Section 501(c)(3) Organizations

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Interesting and worthwhile idea. It would also encourage donations in support of the web site. It seems to me that HMdb.org would satisfy the "educational" criterion for obtaining 501(c)(3) status. I've filed such an application before, and I'd be willing to take it on as a volunteer project.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

A few thoughts.... Would this be worth it, given the expense of setting it up? Assuming 10k markers/year added to the database x $0.14 per mile x 10 miles per marker = $14,000/year potentially deductible. The benefits wouldn't accrue to all correspondents equally - the top 15 correspondents overall are responsible for about 70% of all markers submitted. Presumably for most other correspondents the potential deductible amounts would be too small to bother trying to claim. So, assuming that only the top 15 contributors would find it worthwhile to deduct for the 70% of markers submitted, the total potential deductibility is really only $9800. The few top correspondents would probably have enough deductible mileage to go for a slice of that, so for at least some people, the potential deductible is worth pursuing. But note that conclusion modeled here hangs on the arbitrary (and calculation-friendly) 10 miles per marker. As is often said, your mileage may vary. One snag may be that the IRS may simply not consider the miles driven for marker hunting as deductible. That is, I suspect that the IRS may want a tighter nexus between the expenses of the activities for which the tax benefit is claimed and the activities and purposes of the charitable organization. But this is my opinion, and I am not a lawyer. The above said, one reason I would be in favor of registering HMdb as a 501(3)(c) organization is that it would provide clarity in certain circumstances with regard to the use of some historic photos. That is, leaving the actual facts of public domain and fair use aside, some organizations assert a right of control over the use of their historic photos and grant right of use for educational purposes that they would not grant otherwise. There have been occasions when I have passed on using a historic photo on a marker page simply because the image "owner" indicated that only acceptable uses of the image were personal or educational. Having HMdb incorporated as an educational non-profit would allow me the use of photos that I wouldn't otherwise feel comfortable using.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I've photographed most of the markers I've submitted when out riding my bicycle. Do I get a tax write-off also? After all, my method is more environmentally benign. 14,000 markers times 10 miles/marker divided by 20 mpg = 7,000 gallons of gas consumed annually chasing down markers.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I used to be part of a community theater group that had to go through the process of becoming tax exempt. I remember several things. Firstly, becoming tax exempt was easier at the federal level than it was at the state level. The organization had to define itself as being a charity, an educational institution or a religious organization. HMDB might qualify as educational. I don't know. Secondly, the organization had to have a president, vice president and board of directors. I suppose the editors could have their titles changed. Thirdly, the organization had to have a constitution and bylaws. One of the provisions had to define what happens to the organization's assets if (when?) the organization goes out of business. The theater group was based in Rockville, Maryland. I imagine that each state has different regulations. I don't know how it would work with HMDB since the editors are from many different states.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am researching information and source doumentation on the 86 African American Medal of Honor reciepients. I would like to use some of the information contained on this site as well as some of the photographs. Who do I need to contact.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

You are welcome to use information and most photographs on this website, with attribution. Complete information can be found on our Copyright Page.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The April issue of Civil War Times has a review of HMDB. The issue is on newsstands now.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

One of my marker pictures was used in this article!!! General Grierson'a March. This is my second time I have had a photo published in a national magazine. Way Cool.. http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=27990

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Thats great. Keep it up.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi All, I wanted everyone to know that Next Exit History has partnered with the HMDB and now provides location based access to the database and more through both iPhones and Android enabled devices. Check out the new FREE application and let us know what you think and how we can improve the user experience. Happy history hunting! Http://www.nextexithistory.org

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am wondering if anyone has any information- About my Andrew Jackson fire door Marker The Fire Marker

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The image provided of the gentleman seated on the horse has a more than passing resemblance to the iconic picture of David's Napoleon Crossing the Alps. I've attached an image of the painting, flipped 180 degrees.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Amendments to John Cussons' information. Cussons was a captain and Gen. E.M. Law's ADC and captured on 3rd July 1863.When he was exchanged in April 1864,Cussons did not return to confederate service.He was given 5 months leave to visit his parents in Horncastle, Lincolnshire, England. His duel (which was a double duel with officers of 55th N.C.) was in 1863 during the siege of Suffolk. Cussons was also captured at 2nd Bull Run/Manassas. By the way I am a distant relative of his and have a lot of info about him, too detailed to write here.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Mr. Jolley - I would like to get in touch with you concerning John Cussons. I live in Henrico County, Va. and am looking into his history.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi Bekky Sorry not to have picked up your input on forum earlier. Anyway, my e.mail address is len.jolley@talktalk.net Just for your info I live in Brentwood, Essex, UK Regards Len

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Two old rough stone markers exist in Goshen, MA - "1767 B.P.". One is rather square and the other is much more tall than wide. Both were found in the central area of the town. Local dispute whether B.P. stands for "Boston Post" or "Boundary Post" or something else. Any thoughts on these curiosities? Benjamin Franklin started the mileage marker system in 1767, but those stones have mileage numbers, and not the date. These two stones have the date [if that is what it is] and no other numbers. {Goshen was first settled in 1761 as part of Chesterfield, and incorporated in 1781 as Goshen.}

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Formally a US frontier post before Texas seceded from the Union Fort Stockton witnessed the longest campaign and one of the g Fort Stockton CSA Monument reatest adventures of the War Between the Confederate & United States. In 1861 and 1862 Brigadier General Henry Sibley's brigade of Confederate cavalry marched from San Antonio to just beyond Santa Fe. Their mission was to secure the Confederate Territory of Arizona, invade the Union's Territory of New Mexico, and possibly provide a Confederate transcontinental line from the Atlantic to the Pacific. From San Antonio they rode northwest through Fort Lancaster to Fort Stockton, Fort Davis, Fort Quitman (in Sierra Blanca) and El Paso. The Second Texas Mounted Rifles provided a presence against yankees and Apache Indians in this far west department. However they were redeployed to the Southern Rio Grande Valley and coast when Henry Sibley's cavalry had to retreat back to San Antonio in the summer of 1862. Unionists had captured their supply train following the battle of Glorieta Pass several miles east of Santa Fe. For the rest of the war Fort Stockton and the other Trans-Pecos forts were abandoned by the Confederates. Union troops from California occupied Fort Stockton until the end. Typical of Confederate historical markers it is made of pink granite also known as Texas Marble and about five feet high. The front and back descriptions are typical as well. On the front is a brief mention of the Second Texas Mounted Rifles and the Confederate dream of the west to become an "ocean to ocean nation." On the reverse side as on all Texas Confederate markers is a description of Texas' sacrifice for the cause reading "90,000 Texas troops served the South. Source of supply and gateway to vital trade thru Mexico. Texas was the storehouse of the Western Confederacy..." Erected by the State of Texas in 1863. History of the Confederate American

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Where is it this week? I miss it! By the way, who decides which marker garners the honor?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I see there is a new "First Thanksgiving" marker that would be a great choice for marker of the week this week (especially since "First National Thanksgiving" was already marker of the week 2 years ago). The new marker challenges the traditional notion of a Pilgrim thanksgiving, but expanded my horizons about the tradition of giving thanks. Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Less humbly, I nominate a marker I had to go to prison to add to HMdb: "Home of Governor James Duane Doty." The marker and its subject were next to the Wisconsin Home for Women when it was installed, but then the state expanded the prison to include the marker and Governor's home. I had to get permission from the warden and a special escort to enter the institution to photograph the marker and its subject!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I congratulate you William J. Toman ! ! ! You have traveled above and beyond the call of the "Marker Hunting" ! ! YOUR MARKER Deserves to be "Marker of the Week". ((The Extra Efforts in getting it located, documented, and "camera-captured" for up-loading well fits the full notice of fellow marker hunters and the public as 'Marker of the Week'.)) Here is a hot button for your marker. Keep up the good work ! ! ! ((Have you considered working up a short story related to all you had to go through to gain acess to the location and the on site things (search - etc ?) on this marker photo session? ? It is a story in itself and indeed a point of history as well. It would make for a top notch additional comment to the marker page. My interest is well piqued, and I am very interested! !)) Al Wolf - Veedersburg Your Marker - - ->> "Home of Governor James Duane Doty" ::

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I apologize for the late Marker of the Week this week. We pre-load them weeks in advance and the queue ran out while I was otherwise occupied by my pesky day job. Associate Editor Kevin W. had the task of selecting and writing up Markers of The Week, taking ocassional suggestions from other editors) for a number of years until recently, and now I am at it again. In my opinion, Markers of the Week must be interesting or interestingly presented, and the best are both. Being timely is also a good thing, like the Thanksgiving marker suggestion. I find it impossible to pay attention to each and every new marker what with more than 200 being added each week, so any and all suggestions are welcome. Please send them by email (link below) so as not to clog up the Forum. Marker of the Week Suggestion Box That marker inside a maximum security prison is certainly interesting. Expect to see it as the Marker of the Week soon.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Thanks much to you, Al Wolf, for your kind words. I have added a bit of a short story on getting access to the prison and thus the marker, which will be available to all as soon as it is published (there seems to be more of a delay with updates than new markers recently). I can only hope that my prose adds more to than it subtracts from the marker page. Thanks also to you, J.J. Prats, for your explanation (no apologies necessary -- after all, this is all a volunteer effort). I had meant to ask about the criteria for picking a Marker of the Week instead of who does so, and the suggestion box link is a great idea.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Excellent - - Story, William J. Toman - - Well told and a Plus to the marker ! ! Al Wolf - Veedersburg Here is the finished marker. Http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=38487

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I like the idea behind this list, but not the way it has worked out. There seems to be little change in the list, perhaps due at least in part to the fact that making it onto the list tends to perpetuate a place on the list. (I have purposely not visited The Thomas Viaduct marker so as not to contribute to keeping the marker in its place at or near the top.) Maybe it would be more fun to use a list of the most viewed markers in the last month or week.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

An excellent suggestion ... and not easy to implement. This database does not log usage to save on resources and for privacy reasons (what you don't have someone can't misappropriate). This means that there are no timestamps laying around to add up for 30 day counts and the like. An old fashioned incremental counter is kept on each page that clicks up by one whenever it is displayed to anyone except the person who first created it (and the editors). You are right, though. Except to the new viewer, the Most Viewed Markers list is not very enlightening. What if the counters get reset every New Year's day?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Can you reset the counters more frequently? Perhaps: "Top 10 Most Viewed Markers This Month". I think a list that changes often would encourage exploration by new visitors and virtual marker hunters.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I concur with the "more frequent reset" sentiment if it's not too much work. My guess is that the list becomes self-perpetuating fairly quickly, so that a less frequent reset would leave the list static for longer.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

It would be nice if HMDB can link with Google Earth on marker locations like Wiki, Panorama, and Youtube does. That way when people who surf Google Earth can see where history happened along with more viewers and hits.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi , I am seeking any information on one Col. William Henry Gwynn of Coehoes Falls New York. He was born in England in 1849 and came to America very young. It would appear that he was givin a propreter job at the Cataract House when he was but 17 years old. When and where would he have attained the title of Col.? The william Henry Gwynne or Gwynn was a cigar manufacturer [ Gwynn,s Golden Gems ] and this William Henry also is refered to as a cigar manufacturer. Is there any reference to a marriage or family or death for that matter. Thanks, Roy

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Dutch visitors left the first written accounts of the Great Falls of the Mohawk River at Cohoes during the 1640s. Generations of sightseers, poets, and artists followed to look at the falls, hear their roar, and feel the spray. The Cataract House opened above Cohoes Falls in 1860. Rebuilt and enlarged after a fire, it was operated by William Gwynn from 1867 until 1912. It burned to the ground soon after that.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

William H Gwynn of Cohoe, NY came to own much of the Surfside section of Nantucket after land speculation failed in the late 1800s - according to: Lancaster, Clay. Holiday Island. Nantucket Historical Association, Nantucket, MA: 1993 This area of the island now houses some of the most expensive real estate in the US - including the most expensive house - and estate known as Sandhill - ever sold on the island at about $20M.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi, I have some information on this topic. Please reply to me more spesifically. Thank you Matthew

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

There are four "relationship" features offered by the HMDB system to allow corespondents (and editors) to show the connections between different markers. Here are some rough definitions of these, and some thoughts on their use. Marker Series: The strict definition is a set of markers from the same source which document a common theme. For instance the Civil War Trails series (broken down by state for management), or Maryland's National Road series. A series should (must?) have a common look and feel. However, I'd say the "state" markers, while coming from a common source, cover such a wide theme to disqualify them as a series for our definition. Unfortunately, we've sort of mixed up the definitions a bit with some of our marker series over time. For instance the Civil War sections' "Battlefield Trails" is not a "series" by definition, but for lack of a better location, we've included it there. It is a listing of markers which serve as "trailhead" for related sets (see below). And other series have really become "grab bags" of markers related more by associations than style (i.e. "Believe it or Not.") All that said, marker series are often hard to maintain (visually) and offer no sorting other than the default. Categories: A list of high level subject discussed on the markers. The intent is a very generic, high level, list of common topics seen on the markers. The more generic the better. As can be seen to the right, the more proliferate, the harder to navigate. A marker generally should have only one or two categories checked. But there are often exceptions (particularly markers discussing the history of some localities). We've had some well defined categories, but over time, those definitions have deviated some. Good example, "Military" was intended to cover "military bases or wide ranging military operations," and not subject specific to a particular war. But often both "Military" and "War,..." have been checked. If the category is really working properly, the visitor to the site selects a category on the right and is encouraged to "walk through history" by way of listings in the subject. Categories are also important to the advanced search options, allowing visitors to narrow down their queries to some specific attributes. (The Civil War following has found that particularly helpful when looking for markers within a local area.) Categories require less maintenance than a series, but often get confusing to the contributor. Some will opt for the "more is best" approach and select a half dozen when submitting a marker. Keywords: Here we have the most leeway. As text entered here will assist searches, a well crafted set of key words can "make" a grouping. Just type USCT in the search box on the right for example. While the grouping strictly uses the default search return sort, it is a quick way to build a "sub category" under an existing one. The disadvantage to keywords is maintenance, relevance, and noisy search returns. Every marker you wish to show on the specified search must have the keyword, which can be time consuming. Relevance refers to the entry point of the visitor. Using the example above, "USCT" stands for United States Colored Troops, or African-Americans recruited to serve in segregated units during the Civil War. One could just as easily ask to search for any of a number of similar descriptive terms, not all of which will return results (i.e. "African-American Troops" returns only 6 entries but is a logical search string for some visitors). Finally noisy search returns - no matter how well crafted the keyword structure, the search returns will include some entries where the text is cited without the context intended. For instance this marker (http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=11746) shows up in the USCT search because of a text string "no USCT troops served at Gettysburg." Related markers: This function allows users to link markers together (relate) in a specific order. The "relation" allows for some degree of "storytelling" by way of the marker text. Or as I like to call it "virtual tours." All in all a quick and easy way to indicate that a handful of markers have more in common than inclusion at HMDB. I've found battlefields, with their multitude of markers and monuments, are a natural marriage to related sets. Again, easy to implement, just add the marker numbers and a short description. However, the down side to a related set is again, maintenance. If you opt to drop the "related set" on every marker in the "set", you have a lot of copy and pasting to do. And if you want to update the set, well, you've got to touch every one. What I have done in the past is make one "trailhead" (as mentioned above in the "series" discussion) as the marker that "owns" the relation. From there I often drop a link to the related set on each marker page. That way updates are made in one location, not a dozen. Another down side to related markers is the maximum number allowed in a set. The limitation is the number of characters allowed in the string. For all practicality, the limit is between 20 and 25. (And the more markers entered in the relation, the longer the wait for a response from the web page.) As an editor, I would say I am least inclined to creating new marker series, as those are hard to retract or modify after setup. Categories, likewise, present issues and should be well considered before application. On the other hand, keywords and relations are usually "no brainers" and have little to no impact to the overall presentation of the database. All this said, we would like to hear any input the contributors have in this regard.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have also used the link feature to show relationships, linking to other markers where just one or two of them are relevant (or to do a search for the viewer, e.g., linking to an Elvis Presley search results page, an idea I got from another contributor). That probably was not the intent of the feature, but I think it works well. I have also used the related markers feature beyond the storytelling function, perhaps again not its intended use. However, I think it is a valuable use of the feature to show some relations. I have used it were there were not enough markers for a series (i.e., the Dane County Natural History Marker System) and where there are a group of markers on the same subject (e.g., Native American effigy markers, markers for Madison, Wisconsin's first buildings, markers mentioning Madison's founder). I tend to favor these relations features (and the series feature) because they benefit the casual viewer, that is, a person who generally just browses HMdb and happens upon a particular marker and wants to know more. I may be off base, but I'm guessing the search features are used mainly by a smaller group of serious viewers. Also, I think the keyword and category features are too subjective to yield reliably helpful results. Thanks for all your work on HMdb!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Where Can I Get A List Of Prisnors Held At Pea Patch During The War Between The States.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Bay Stater Russell Bixby brought to my attention his catalog of 273 Massachusetts Tercentenary Commission Markers, all erected in 1930 throughout Massachusetts. Only 9 of them are in our database as of today. Russell writes that “the Massachusetts Bay Colony Tercentenary Markers represent the most visible attachment to our state’s historical origins” and I have to agree with him. I don’t think there is another series of historical markers in Massachusetts this large that is limited to this one topic. Until I published his catalog a few minutes ago, there was no complete online reference for them. You’ll find it by following the link below. I also created a new Marker Series and added the nine we already have to it. I want to let HMdb marker hunters in, around, or traveling to or through Massachusetts know about these markers. Russell’s catalog lists their original and, likely, their current locations. The Historical Marker Database would be an excellent place for a complete illustrated, annotated and mapped catalog of this series of markers. Spring is just around the corner and chasing these markers down would be a great way to enjoy an outing or two or four in this beautiful state. Nine are already here. 264 to go. Catalog of Massachusetts Tercentenary Commission Markers

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The item titled "The Church in Salem Village" has been cataloged as Marker #17982. The Pear Tree, I don't believe that it carries a marker but I'll take a look this week. The Church in Salem Village

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I went to the pear tree this morning and looked around, the marker, if there was one, has been removed. I don't know if the town will be putting it back up. I took a picture (unexciting) of the location and have the coordinates of it but without a marker, does anyone actually want me to post this?

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hold on to those photos and location. Perhaps someone else has a vintage photo of the marker. With that and your info the page can be added.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Just to share the information, here's the Wikipedia article about the tree: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Endicott_Pear_Tree Endicott Pear Tree

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

It bothered me that I couldn't find it so I did some digging. I've also asked the town for a status on the marker because I was curious. In the process however, I did find a photo of the marker but I can't include it since it's not mine. Additionaly, I found, what I consider to be a major find on the net here, an individual who's done most of the leg work for this project already. You'll find his marker webpage here: http://douging.smugmug.com/History/Massachusetts-Tercentenary-1/ And his picture of the pear tree marker: http://douging.smugmug.com/History/Massachusetts-Tercentenary-1/193712_FvWeJ/1/97828816_YAnGq/Medium Dear Mr Editor, you might want to reach out to this fine fellow and suggest some sort of partnership. :) Tercentenary Markers from Massachusetts' 300th birthday in 1930

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I got two more of the markers in there.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

That is a great collection of photos of these markers that you've found. Shows that many of them are still out there. I r “Still Defying the Tooth of Time” ecently got a copy on eBay of the 1930 book "Historical Markers Erected By Massachusetts Bay Colony Tercentenary Commission" which contains the text and location of all of the markers, and a number of black and white photographs. Here is an entry: Dedham. Fairbanks House. Oldest house in Dedham, a part of it built about 1636. Homestead of Jonathan Fairbanks, who with his sons John, George, and Jonathan, Junior, signed the Dedham Covenant September 10, 1636. Ancentral home of the late Vice-President Fairbanks. (Eastern Avenue and East Street) On the photographs they have superimposed images of the markers (see photo). And to think they did this without Photoshop! Unfortunately, it is still under copyright so I can't scan it and put it online. If anyone would like me to look something up, send me an email.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This isn't a call to arms for something I see done wrong, this is a curious question to understand how the overall systems work. There are two markers: http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=20407 and http://www.hmdb.org/marker.asp?marker=20408 Which are for the same item. I've read the descriptons and I suspect i know the answer but I figured I'd ask to learn. Why are these separate marker entries instead of one? I suspect that the answer is so that either may be located by searching but I am not sure. Thanks for your time.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

If you look very closely you will see that these are actually two different markers. They are located at opposite ends of the boat. Also they display different photos. Marker 20407 displays a map on the right side, while 20408 has a photo and diagram of the ship displayed. Even though the titles are the same, the text of the markers are different. Hope this helps.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Additional information. Often there are more than one marker for the same site and sometimes the text is identical. If they are located at different places we prefer that both markers be submitted. Even though the subject, and sometimes the text, are the same they are separate markers and have earned their own marker pages.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

File that under "Live and learn." :) Thanks.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The one or two letter prefix on official Virginia state historical markers mean something. They are explained in the first entry on this new HMdb page. State Marker Numbering Plans

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

This page is a great idea.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi, I have a question about a marker that the status was revoked. I wonder what happens to the markers when they are taken down? I would be interested in purchasing one that was attached to a 1850's building in Hays County, TX. This building was once owned by my ancestor but the current owners sadly changed it up so the state revoked it's status. Thanks Rick

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Regrettaby, we aren't affiliated with organizations who design, erect, or maintain historical markers, so can't help directly with your request. I would recommend contacting the Texas Historical Commission, as they are likely the organization who would be able to help. Texas Historical Commission

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Here's a dream of mine: having a mobile version of this database that connects to my phone's GPS and auto-populates a list and map of nearby HMDB sites as I am traveling. Anybody working on such a thing? Thanks.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Over the last two years a number of folks have asked permission to create precisely what you are looking for the iPhone and other smart phones. I've granted permission in all cases and am still waiting to hear notice of a launch. I was recently told that there is a 99¢ application for the iPhone titled Historical Markers that uses data from this database as well as data from other historical markers databases to plot markers on a map of the phone's current location. I borrowed an iPhone, asked the owner to spend 99 cents for me, and tested it out. It worked exactly as advertised. It showed pushpins on a map. When you tapped a pushpin you got the name. A further tap got you to HMdb's current page for that marker. Simple and elegant. But the application had one glaring problem: the database it was using was stale. Recently added markers near my location were not shown. I later got an email from a disappointed person in New York State who reported that this app showed no markers at all in New York and New Jersey. Also, the supplier of this app does not appear to have asked permission to use our database for commercial use as required by our copyright notice. More specifically his name is not on the list of those who have asked permission. There are two ways I can think of to create this type of application. Perhaps the easiest way is to amass a database, reduce it to just what is needed (name and coordinates), incorporate it into the app and load the whole thing into the phone when purchased. The other is to fetch the information in real time from HMdb.org whenever the application is activated. HMdb.org has an API (application programming interface) available to do this quickly an efficiently (so as not to clog up the airwaves). The application I tested does not appear to use the API or else it would have shown the recently added marker near where I tested it. We are adding 200 to 300 markers a week to the database. I believe a better application would fetch nearby markers in real time.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Hi Harold. My name is Dave Moreau. I had a similar dream about roadside markers and never being able to get the information off them and I may be able to help you soon. I am launching a mobile phone application on the Android 2.0 platform (Droid, google nexus are some phones) that will have all the historical markers in the database available and is designed with the driver in mind. It will be called Georeader and it will be a free app. We have a site at MyGeoreader.com but we need to add things to it as its just a holder. You can keep tabs on progress via twitter if you want as well. I am trying to get a beta application ready in about a month (it's more up to the programmer than me) and have been making steady progress and will be looking for testers for it soon (perhaps you could even be one). I approached Mr. Prats with the application concept was absolutely thrilled he was willing to share the hmdb information. I cannot thank him enough for his kindness. Holding Page, Will Have More Soon

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I have written a very simple app for Android phones (1.6 or newer) called Historical Marker Database (name used with permission of editor J. J. Prats). The gist of the app is that it uses the phones built-in GPS to determine your current location and then opens a web browser to the nearest marker to your location on HMdb.org. Since all Android phones have data plans and high quality web browsers, it made sense to let HMdb.org do all the heavy lifting, so the app is more or less just a fancy bookmark that takes you to a marker nearby. The app launched on Saturday. I believe the description to be an accurate representation of the functionality, but unfortunately one of the first people to download it gave it a 1* rating and a comment of "didn't do nothing". Since that 1* rating was made, not many people have downloaded it (and who would download an app with a 1* rating). I have a favor to ask of the community. First, if you have an Android phone, then download the app and test it out. If it doesn't work, please contact me (eric@wikman.com) and help me figure out why so that I can fix the problem so that I don't get any other 1* ratings. Second, if you have feedback on the app and how it can be improved, please let me know. Finally, if it does function in a manner consistent with the description I gave it, please add a comment to the Android Market that is more fitting. Hopefully if it gets a few 3* or 4* ratings, then that will offset the 1* rating and more people will try it out, and that may lead to more people learning about this site and contributing to it. Plus I'd be a lot more motivated to add new features to the app if people are using it and liking it. I've also pledged to donate the code to the HMdb.org, so if the community is unhappy with me maintaining the code, the code will be open-source and available for others to improve upon. http://www.appbrain.com/app/com.ericwikman.hmdb

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Eric, I have a Motorola Droid, downloaded the app, and it did work. First time running it I was indoors, and it was just sitting there waiting to confirm my location. I went outside, and it still sat there, although I confirmed that my location was found by Google Maps. So then I restarted the app, and this time it immediately found my location, and went directly to the nearest marker page. So maybe needs to have GPS lock before starting? 1. I haven't figured out how to leave a comment for the app - if you can help, I will gladly do so. 2. You might slightly modify the description to read "finds the nearest historical marker *in the HMdb.org database* from your current location", but otherwise agree it is accurate. I was not actually expecting it to jump right to a marker page, but rather yield a list of the nearest markers, but then that is what you described. J.J. - any chance of there being a Mobile Web Page version for the HMdb.org site, for iphone, droid, etc? Maybe yielding all the text first, with options to display pictures, categories, search options, etc...

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

F. Robby, I have updated the description the way you suggested; I agree that is more clear. I think I've seen the behavior that you describe where it has trouble getting your GPS lock and then basically gives up until you restart it. I think there may be a timeout, where if the GPS location can't be found in X amount of time, it quits trying (probably to conserve battery life). I've seen the same thing happen when trying to use Google Navigate as well. I'll have to see if I can figure out a way to either improve this, or give a better description of the problem to the user. In terms of listing nearby markers and then the user can click on one to go to that page, I like this idea, and actually have talked to JJ about doing this, it is just that there is significantly more effort involved to accomplish that. JJ has given me the info to use the API to get that info, so there is a strong chance that a future version will do exactly that. But we both thought that it made sense to take the simplest approach at first, the idea being that some functional app is better than no app. Finally, to add a comment to the market (at least on my phone), open up the Android Market, then go to the program details page (which you can find on either your downloads page or just search for the app again) and then at the very top there are 5 grey'd out stars and the phrase "Rate it!", click the stars, then give it a star rating, and then it will add a link to Post Comment, click that and type that. Thanks for the feedback. It may not be until next weekend, but I'll start working on listing nearby markers on it soon.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The way Eric designed the application; it leaves the heavy lifting to HMdb.org. I like it that way. This means that at some point in the future I can change what is displayed by changing what the server sends back. Currently an unmodified marker page gets sent back. I would like to do what you suggest, provide a list of nearby markers perhaps with little thumbnail photos of each and a way to click to get the full page, but better formatted for the little screen. It's on the to-do list!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

You guys do good work!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I've been using it and will rate it well tomorrow. It works fine for me, although I wish there were a way to link to all existing markers (I'm in Texas and the Texas Historical Commission maintains a list, not sure about other states) instead of just the markers that have been uploaded onto this site. Very few people have uploaded markers from my area onto the site, so I generally get the same marker through your application no matter where I am in town - and we have close to 100 markers in my county alone. I know this is sort of a limitation of the site and not your application, but even though your application works as advertised, it doesn't do me much good. :(

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Update! We have just the launched the Georeader app in the android market (Search under Georeader). The app reads aloud the historical marker's text as you drive near it. We have include as much HMDB.org data as we could.( thanks J.J.) You can also add points about Historical markers, POIs or anything else about any topic you would like to its database from the app itself and from the web. Its a free app for all android phones. Please check out the website www.mygeoreaader.com. I really think you will like it. Dave App Website

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I downloaded Georeader on the Droid and it worked great. In addition to having the historical markers on a map near your location, it reads the contents to you as you drive by, so you don't need to handle your phone when driving. I recommend it.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Can you tell me who actually is the owner of this log house now? And how I might reach out to them? Tks. John scott1951@att.net

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I just wanted to take a moment to thank and congratulate everyone who was and is involved in the creation and maintenance of this wonderful historical database. I have been involved in historic preservation for a number of years, and have run across attempts at doing this, but HMdb.org is the finest, most comprehensive, and most easy to use resource that there is, even down to making it accessible to smartphones! You deserve much praise and recognition for this effort, and I look forward to spreading the word to folks in my neck of the woods.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

After thinking about it, I decided to include a personal story in the caption to one of the photos on a recent marker I posted: Nickolaus Gerber. I included it because I like the story and because it is relevant to the picture (one of the subjects of the marker), but I'd be interested in feedback from anyone pro or con.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I always enjoy a good story, even if it is a little cheesy!

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

How does one go about getting a new marker posted ? Ye Olde Meeker Inn - Which has the following entry in History of Union Site of ye Olde Meeker Inn County, New Jersey, 1664-1923. New York: Lewis Historical Pub. Co., 1923. The old Meeker Inn, built about 1756 along the line of the trolley road from Elizabeth to Springfield, is in an excellent state of preservation. It probably was one of the few buildings that escaped the torch of the British invaders in 1780. From 140th Anniversary of founding of Union Township 1948 with my comments in parenthesis. Looking around for a permanent site (for Union Center National Bank), and an appropriate building, a committee bought the Meeker Inn, the century old landmark (actually almost 2 Centuries old at the time since it was built around 1756) in which the founders had first met to plan and organize. It was located on the northwest corner of Stuyvesant and Morris Avenues. The present home of the Union Center National Bank with the most modern fixtures and vaults, was built on the site of the old historic Inn. Opening its doors toward the end of 1930. Oddly enough, the first "business discussions" concerning plans for a Bank, took place on the present site of the Bank, in the then Meeker Inn,a tavern long operated by one of the early Meeker Clan, and a popular resort for community and political discussion for long years of its prominence in town. Life was still tranquil and that was the way people wanted it.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Regretfully, we are not affiliated with any organizations who design, fund, or maintain historical markers, so can not help directly with placing markers for those deserving places that do not yet have one. Most states have official organizations that review recommendations for historical markers. Unfortunately, New Jersey is not one of them, although they have established the New Jersey Heritage Tourism Task Force to determine how best to do so. As there is currently no official state program, we recommend you contact the Union County Historical Society (116 E. 4th Ave., Roselle, NJ 07203, (908) 245-9010). They may be able to assist with this effort. New Jersey Heritage Tourism Task Force

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

In response to many requests, and with some trepidation, I have increased the search result limit from 100 to 500 markers. This also allows for the 500 markers in the result to be mapped. The reason for having a limit is to provide faster results, especially for those on slower Internet access lines. Many browsers will not show you any part of the page until the entire results have arrived at your computer. With maps the bottleneck is your computer's processor because maps are composed in your browser, not at our server. 500 pushpins may take close to a minute to place on many computers, and while you wait you are treated to a blank white, and then a gray, screen. Please let me know if the new limit causes you any trouble. Editor@hmdb.org

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Oops! There is a bug in the 500 marker upgrade. Less than 400 pushpins are appearing and, ocassionally, exactly one completely irrelevant marker shows up on the map. I know how to fix it, and I'll get that fixed soon. Meanwhile I am going to cut the limit to 250 markers to stop the irrelevant marker from showing up. If you are interested in what went wrong, read on. It seems that there is a 2083 character limit in a browser's address bar. I am trying to shove 500 marker numbers there, and 500 marker numbers would take up about 3000 characters. There is another method to pass those numbers to the map page that has no practical limit. It requires a bit more work to code it up. I'll get on this right away. Oh, and the one completely irrelevant marker? It occurs when a marker number is truncated when the limit is reached.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Historical Markers – State Historical Society of Iowa A contributing editor sent along this document that I've just made searchable and put online. It is a list of Iowa markers as of 1999, the latest available list from the State Historical Society of Iowa. They would be pleased to send you a copy on request, but now—or as soon as the search engines notice it—it will be available to anyone who is searching for it on the Internet. If you have any public documents that you think other marker hunters might find useful, send them to me and I'll put them online.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I'm afraid I have an issue with the "First Confederate Flag" marker in Northern VA, and stated flag designer. I have a document from the Daughters of the Confederacy, and newspaper articles, stating that Orren Randolph Smuth designed the first confederate flag and my Great, Great Grandmother, Rebecca Winborne, hand made the first Confederate flag (and North Carolina battle flag.) It was first flown in the courthouse square of Louisburg, NC, on a Monday, March 18, 1861; two months before North Carolina seceded. The flag committee in Montgomery not only voted on and approved this first flag but they were also the same committee that voted for Jefferson Davis to be the President of the South. Birthplace of the Confederate Battle Flag Marker

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

The first national Confederate Flag? Could not find the marker that is in question. This from a plaque by the Confederate monument on the grounds of the Alabama's State Capitol. First National Confederate Flag ("Stars And Bars") The "Stars and Bars" designed by Nicola Marshall of Marion, Alabama, was adopted by the flag selection committee of the Provisional Confederate Congress at Montgomery and raised over the capitol building on March 4, 1861. Its similarity to the U.S. flag was favored by most Southerners who felt sentimental attachment to the "old flag" Additional stars were added as more southern states seceded and joined the Confederacy. Credit: Mollus USAMHI Photograph of flag over Fort Sumter, April 15, 1861 http://www.flickr.com/photos/timandrenda/3780470608/in/set-72157622459893456?edited=1

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

Mr. Pearce: We can't change what the marker says but we can add information to the marker's page. Please send me the documents you have and I would be happy to post them on the same page with the marker. My email is below. Mr. Carr: The plaque you reference qualifies as a historical marker on this site. Is that your photograph? If it is, please add it to the database at your convenience. We can link that and the Northern Virginia marker to each other to further illustrate the different interpretations of history. Editor@hmdb.org

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I'm not a flag expert (Vexillology as it is known), but I think the distinction here is between the Confederate National flag and the Confederate battle flag. The marker in question refers to the later. Historian Tom Clemens does a good job explaining the difference in the video linked here. Tom Clemens on Confederate Flags

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I am in the final stages of editing the on the eve of the Civil War diary of James Jerman Palmer (with biography). His is one of two surviving tombstones in the Groveton Confederate Cemetery (Manassas). I visited his grave last weekend after researching Groveton on-line. I think there is an error or this site in regards to the origin of the cemetery. Hmdb says that it was established by the United Daughters of the Confederacy in 1866. The UDC was not established until about 1894, as I recall. Brotherswar.com has the cemetery established by local citizens in 1867. I think this is probably the case. Jim Palmer's remains were reburied under the supervision of Miss Mary J. Dogan of the ladies Memorial Association. If anyone has any more accurate information regarding the establishment of the cemetery please let me know, as I want my book to be factually accurate.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I'm interested in 3 dimensional (model) markers, usually cast metal, that depict either a battle site or what was once there. They also locate the viewer. I believe I saw one in Bennington Vermont and it depicted the battle site but I may be wrong. I want to try and get local interest to place such models at sites of settlements or industries that have disappeared here on Bainbridge Island. If you have examples or leads please email me: jimm@rittergrup.com Thank you - this is a great site.

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I first joined the HMdb in November, 2007 as was contributer 52. I can say that I have visited all 50 states (Ind., Mich.,Wisc. are weak visits) and thus started adding pictures - Although I did not have photos of Historical markers from all the places I've been, I was able to then post the first Markers for 7 States (Alaska, Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, and North Dakota). I have found it very curious that today, 28 months later with 1129 contributers and over 25,800 markers, that there is still just ONE post for North Dakota. Even back in the 1960's when I lived in South Dakota, no-one went to North Dakota... It kind of had the name "The land that God forgot". Gheez, after all these years, it seems to still be that way. Really, it shouldn't be. It just surprises me that there isn't folks out there that can add pages for North Dakota. Just an observation

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw

I can put some numbers on your observation: As of 1/1/10, of the 50 states and DC, North Dakota was dead last in the number of markers per capita population, with 0.2 markers per 100,000 population. North Dakota was barely beaten by Arkansas, Oklahoma, and New Hampshire, all tied with 0.5 markers per 100,000 people. At the other end of the spectrum, Virginia, DC, and Maryland had the 54.5, 46.6, and 42.1 markers per 100,000. Amongst the counties, Alpine (CA), Taliaferro (GA), and Adams (PA), had the highest number of markers per capita, with 2,542, 1,119, and 1,017 markers per 100,000. Whether this means that some places have more markers than others, or some places have been better explored by marker hunters, I leave you to decide....

 
  Reply To This Topic — Correct or Withdraw