Historical marker

Roadside historical marker with biography of Carter G. Woodson located in Huntington, West Virginia

In the United States, a historical marker is a plaque erected at historically significant locations, facilities, or buildings. These markers are usually near roads driven by vehicles, and their presence is often indicated by traffic signs.

Many different administrative systems exist for the purpose of creating and maintaining historical markers. In addition to the National Register of Historic Places (which may or may not have markers at each property), many states have their own distinctive set of historical markers. Cities and/or counties may also choose to have their own system of recognizing and acknowledging historical places. In addition to these geographically defined regions, individual organizations, such as E Clampus Vitus or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, can choose to maintain a national set of historic markers that fit a certain theme.