The Travel Information Council is the state’s official administrator of the Oregon Historical Marker Program. Oregon’s historical markers tout a history all their own—many of the famous Port Orford cedar “Beaver Boards” were built by the Oregon Department of Transportation in the 1940s, 50s and 60s.
TIC adopted the program in 1991 and works with a team of dedicated volunteers in preserving the signs for future generations. The program is steered by the Oregon Historical Marker Committee, which is staffed by volunteer professionals involved in Oregon forestry, geology, and historical and cultural research.
In addition to members of the marker committee, the program relies on another important group of volunteers—volunteer master craftsmen based within a West Salem retirement community. The “Salemtowne Historical Marker Volunteers” could easily be called a linchpin of the program. The group of approximately 10 men ensure that over 110 Historical Markers remain in good condition. Given the age of many of the markers, this is a supreme task.
Context & Complexity: Through interpreting histories connected to specific places, we will be mindful of context and committed to highlighting complexity.
Accessibility: We will produce materials that are accessible to a broad range of people who seek to learn from them.
Cultural Humility & Accuracy: While prioritizing accuracy and fact-base narratives, we will recognize that dominant culture has long silenced different viewpoints and seek to be inclusive of varied perspectives.
Honesty & Transparency: We will tell the truth about the past. This commitment includes prioritizing perspectives that are marginalized by simplistic and mythical narratives. We will be transparent with the public about our decision-making processes.
Members of the Historical Marker Committee bring their vision to the table alongside their expertise in the fields of geology, history, education, archaeology and traffic safety. If you are interested in serving on the committee, please contact us for more information.
The following members serve Oregon proudly:
Barbara Bonnem, Kelly Cannon-Miller, Nancy DeSouza, Bob Garcia, Dave Hedberg, Robert Olguin, Sarah Jalving, Amy Platt, David Porter, Ed Washington
Salemtowne Volunteers
The following volunteers participate in the maintenance, installation, and repair of Oregon’s Historical Markers:
Alan Avery, Jack Carroll, Ken Carter, James Childers, Donald Conrad Jr, John Mangini, Herman Mitzel, Howard Palmer, Leonard Shultz, Owen Stockard
TIC Marker Admin staff
Beth Dehn, Program Manager, 503-373-0864.
Jessica Carbone, Program Assistant, 503-373-0155
Nomination: Want to nominate an historical marker? Read more about the process.
Sponsorship: Sponsoring a marker is another option for communities, cities or organizations. Learn more about sponsorship.
Regional markers: Regional markers are collaborative projects between businesses and city or county government and other organizations. The Travel Information Council is actively seeking sponsorship for the Willamette Valley, Eastern Oregon and other locations across the state. Visit our regional marker page for more information.
“Friend” us on Facebook
Travel Information Council’s heritage programs Facebook page is an excellent way to learn about special events and glean historical nuggets about heritage trees and historical markers. You can follow us by clicking on the Facebook icon.
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