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Boston: New Historic Markers Program Launches with $300,000 in Community Grants

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~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced the creation of the Historic Markers Community Grants Program at the 250th commemoration event honoring Henry Knox and His Noble Artillery's role in ending the Siege of Boston. The program, supported by a $650,000 allocation from the Browne Fund, aims to tell a more complete story of Boston and uplift the rich cultural heritage of its neighborhoods.

"Historic markers help us see the city more clearly," said Kathy Kottaridis, Director of the Office of Historic Preservation. "They bring forward the diverse people, places, and events that shaped Boston and ensure that the stories visible in our public landscape reflect the full richness of our communities."

The program will facilitate the installation of a new series of commemorative markers across the city. An initial $300,000 grant program is open to community organizations throughout Boston to research and engage their communities on potential sites and themes for future markers. Interested organizations can learn more about the program and apply through a link provided by Mayor Wu.

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The remaining funding has been directed to the Office of Historic Preservation for the design, fabrication, and installation of an initial set of 25+ markers by July. A broader citywide application will also open in Fall 2026.

"These markers put these stories right where they belong - front and center, where our history happened," said Mayor Wu.

This initiative builds on Boston's ongoing efforts with state and local partners to shape a more inclusive experience of its revolutionary past and present for residents, families, and tourists. In February 2026, Mayor Wu announced a partnership between Boston 250 and Everyone250 - a coalition of over 100 partners across Boston's arts and cultural landscape - to place 25 new markers throughout the city.

These markers will highlight underrepresented stories in Boston's history and will be accompanied by an interactive digital map and guide. Everyone250 has already unveiled markers at King's Chapel, Union Church, Twelfth Baptist Church, and most recently, United South End Settlements on February 27. More unveilings are planned throughout the spring and summer.

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With America's 250th anniversary as the catalyzing event, these efforts mark the beginning of a broader, long-term citywide initiative to reimagine the way Boston tells and memorializes stories and history. This initiative is also part of a commemorative effort led by Boston 250 in preparation for Boston's upcoming 400th anniversary. The goal is to create up to 400 permanent historic markers throughout the city, highlighting the diverse people and experiences that have shaped it over the centuries.

"We give residents and visitors perspective and a place in the long, evolving story of our continually changing city," said Kottaridis.

The commemoration event also included Mayor Wu's attendance at the Boston 250 2026 Launch - Henry Knox Trail Stop in Roxbury on March 7, where she unveiled a new marker. She also attended the Twelfth Baptist Square Honorary Street Sign Unveiling & Marker Event in Roxbury on February 8.

These events and announcements mark an important step towards creating a more inclusive and comprehensive narrative of Boston's history. The city looks forward to continuing this effort as it prepares for its upcoming anniversaries. To learn more about Boston 250, visit their website.

Filed Under: Government, City

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