Buying History: Trends in Ohio Historical Markers

This is an extension of previous research from the NCPH 2019 Annual Conference Poster Session and GSRS 2019 Poster Session: “Are We Diluting History?: A Holistic Analysis of Ohio Historical Markers”. Research for this poster involved a random sample of approximately 20% of Ohio Historical Markers. The 327 markers that made up the sample were then analyzed and graded on a ten-point scale in four categories: historical significance, historical integrity, context, and mechanics. From there many conclusions were made after crunching the numbers and sorting the grades by decade, subject matter, and other parameters. Trends from this study include: the act of buying history, missing opportunities for audience engagement, and better crafted markers coming from lower-income areas. While presenting other public history professionals were shocked at the results of the analysis and the content, location, and accessibility found on these markers. Non-Ohioans were also intrigued to learn if these same instances were also occurring in their home state. This feedback has encouraged this proposal for further research on the subject. This paper will include an analysis of previous research, as well as a case study of Mahoning County’s markers. This case study will look at the historic value of each marker, the density of Mahoning County’s markers, and economic data of each municipality. It is also important to make this a resource and practical study for the public history field. Therefore, the conclusion will provide a “Best Practices” section regarding the practices surrounding state historical markers