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William G. Pomeroy Foundation Offers Legends and Lore Marker Grants

Funding, News from the Field, Professional Opportunities
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Recognizing the Diverse Landscape of Folklore with Roadside Markers

The William G. Pomeroy Foundation issues this invitation:

Whether you’re a folklorist or nonprofit professional, consider how the cultural traditions in the communities you serve might gain further recognition through the public spotlight generated by a roadside marker.

At the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, we welcome American Folklore Society members and your broader networks to learn more about our Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program as a way to celebrate the diverse landscape of folk and traditional arts in the United States. Our fully funded Legends & Lore markers not only commemorate folklore and legends, but also promote cultural tourism in communities where they are placed.

From folk heroes and folk songs to cultural phenomena and stories told for generations, examples of current Legends & Lore markers are wide ranging. Among them are the intriguing arborglyphs of Idaho and this regional holiday in Pennsylvania, both which saw enhanced community interest through public marker dedications and local media coverage. You can also browse more than 130 other Legend & Lore examples on our interactive marker map.

Currently, Legends & Lore marker grants are available in 11 states thanks to collaborations with our wonderful state partner organizations in Alabama, Connecticut, Idaho, Louisiana, Missouri, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and West Virginia.

Legend & Lore marker grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations, nonprofit academic institutions, and local, state, and federal government entities. For more information about the grant program, marker guidelines and how to apply online, visit the Pomeroy Foundation’s Legends & Lore webpage. Applications are being accepted from Monday, March 14 through Monday, May 2, 2022.

Interested, but Legends & Lore isn’t available yet in your state? Let’s start a conversation about partnership opportunities. Email [email protected] or call us at 315-913-4060.

Three people hold a red ribbon while a fourth cuts it with large scissors. They stand in front of a maroon Legends and Lore roadside marker that reads "Legends & Lore / The Arborlyphs (all caps) / Sheepherder carvings in the bark of ... trees feature names ... and poems... Idaho" (some text obscured by people standing in front of the sign)
Celebrating the new Legends & Lore marker for the arborglyphs in Ketchum, Idaho.

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