The Utah Historical Society takes seriously its legislative mandate under Utah Code 9-8-203(3) to maintain a record of the state’s monuments and markers. We manage a public-facing database that provides details about hundreds of historical monuments and markers across Utah. While we do not own or maintain most of these markers — and cannot guarantee their accuracy — we strive to provide reliable, up-to-date information for researchers, students, and everyday Utahns.
In 2023, we took a fresh look at the database by hiring two ambassadors to evaluate its content. Originally created and managed by the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), the database is now overseen by UHS. The ambassadors examined the stories our monuments tell and whose voices are most represented in public commemorative spaces.
This is not the first time we’ve worked with the public to build this resource. Shortly after the legislative directive was passed in 1996, UHS conducted a statewide survey with the help of volunteers — many from groups like the Daughters of the Utah Pioneers and Sons of the Utah Pioneers. These volunteers visited markers in their communities and filled out detailed paper surveys, documenting everything from monument dimensions to construction materials.
Now, it’s time for the next phase.
Many entries in the database haven’t been updated in years, and numerous more recent monuments are missing altogether. That’s why we’re launching a new crowdsourcing initiative — and we need your help!
Our updated digital form is quick and easy to complete (a far cry from the lengthy paper version in 1996!). Whether you’re visiting a marker that’s already in the database or discovering one that isn’t, we want to hear from you. Every entry is valuable, and we especially welcome updated photos, since many images in our system are outdated or missing.
You can participate by filling out our simple Google Form: https://forms.gle/tUYzjcuPZEwzBA8M6.
By contributing, you’ll help preserve and document Utah’s rich historical landscape — and ensure the database reflects the full variety and evolution of our public memory. Together, we can create a more complete and useful resource for everyone.