This searchable database is the result of a survey of historic markers and monuments undertaken 1995-1996 by the Utah State Historical Society.
Historical markers may contain valuable information about Utah history. However, they may have been placed at a time when historical information was limited. New evidence not reflected in the text of older markers is likely available now. Or, in some cases, the marker reflects the particular point of view of the placing organization. In all case, markers are, themselves, evidence of how segments of society viewed historical events at the time the markers were placed.
For purposes of the database, a marker contains the text. It may be a bronze, aluminum, or wooden plaque. The monument holds the marker. In most cases, the monument is a freestanding structure made of wood, stone, or brick, but sometimes the marker is attached to a structure, such as a building or bridge. Those structures then become the monument. Sometimes the marker is inscribed directly on the monument; then the marker and the monument are the same.
We limited the survey to markers that contain information on Utah history. We excluded (with some rare exceptions) markers and monuments found in cemeteries, and war memorials with lists of veterans or casualties.
The database includes information on location, physical structures, and the organizations and groups responsible for the markers and monuments. It also includes the full text of each inscription.
The database allows users to search the texts of the inscriptions. You may further limit a search by location, by responsible organization, or by a theme.
The information in the database came principally from local historical societies, including Daughters of Utah Pioneer camps or companies. These local organizations surveyed their communities (or counties) to locate the markers then carefully recorded the information. These data were then entered into a database. The database was converted to a web-searchable system in 1999. We continue to add information about markers as it becomes available to us.
We invite you to help us! If you know of markers not included in the database, please send us the information found on the full display.
For more information contact:
Doug Misner at 801-533-3535
Markers and Monuments Inventory
Utah State Historical Society
300 Rio Grande
Salt Lake City, UT 84101
Fax: 801/533-3504
