Historical Markers

Ever wondered about those large markers that you see along U.S. and State highways throughout Louisiana? They are part of the historic marker program administered by the State of Louisiana – Division of Historic Preservation. These markers help document our state’s heritage for each specific site. 

The Historic Marker program began in 1951. The markers are erected by the State Department of Transportation and Development and sponsored by local groups or individuals.

Description of Marker

The markers are made of aluminum alloy, have a brown background with ivory letters and are topped off with an arched crest with an outline of the State of Louisiana’s symbol, the brown pelican.

Criteria

Sites that qualify for a marker must meet one of the following criteria:

  • Be a historical trail or route
  • Be of lasting significance to the state’s history
  • Be of significant historical importance to the state
  • Be a significant architectural landmark

Local Markers

Request a Historical Marker

If you would like to request a new historic marker to be put in place in West Baton Rouge Parish please contact the Louisiana Office of Tourism, Louisiana Historical Marker Program at 225-342-2876 or via their website.

The West Baton Rouge Historical Association sponsors State of Louisiana historical markers as part of its efforts to preserve and highlight the parish’s heritage. If you have an idea for a marker and would like the Historical Association to consider it, please contact the West Baton Rouge Historical Association (located at the West Baton Rouge Museum) at 225-336-2422 to get in touch with the Historic Preservation Committee Chair. Your marker suggestion will be included with pool of other marker suggestions for evaluation and final selection. 

*Please note that the Historical Association typically sponsors one marker per year depending on the circumstances. 

Contact Us

West Baton Rouge has a number of these markers around our parish. As you travel and read, you will learn the story of the local area. For more information on how to obtain a marker, contact the State Office of Historic Preservation 225-342-8160 or contact the West Baton Rouge Historical Association (located at the West Baton Rouge Museum) 225-336-2422.

For information on markers throughout Louisiana, see “Why Stop? A Guide to Louisiana’s Roadside Historical Markers” by Marael Johnson available at the West Baton Rouge Parish Library:
830 N Alexander
Port Allen, LA 70767
Phone: 225-342-7920