BLOOMINGTON – The City of Bloomington’s Historical Signage Program recognizes the people, places, and events that have shaped our community. Through interpretive signs placed on City-owned property, residents and visitors can learn about Bloomington’s rich history and the individuals, organizations, and moments that helped define it.
Community members, neighborhood groups, historians, educators, and local organizations are invited to nominate historically significant subjects for recognition.
Who and What Can Be Recognized?
Historical signs may commemorate:
- People who have made significant or noteworthy contributions to Bloomington and its residents
- Important historical events
- Historic sites, buildings, neighborhoods, or landscapes
- Places associated with notable cultural, social, civic, economic, or political developments
To be eligible, the subject must have a documented connection to Bloomington and a meaningful relationship to the proposed sign location.
Where Can Signs Be Installed?
Historical signs approved through this program may only be installed on property owned or managed by the City of Bloomington. Eligible locations include:
- City parks and recreational facilities
- City-owned buildings
- Public plazas and gathering spaces
- Other City-owned public property
The City will determine the final placement of all approved signs based on site conditions, public accessibility, and operational considerations.
How the Program Works
Applications are accepted each year from January 1 through September 30.
Each application must include:
- A brief statement explaining the historical significance of the subject (300 words or fewer)
- A draft of the proposed sign text (150 words or fewer)
- Documentation and sources supporting the historical claims
- Information demonstrating the connection between the subject and the proposed location
Applications are reviewed for historical accuracy by the Monroe County History Center and evaluated by a City review committee. Final approval is made by the Mayor.
Up to three historical signs may be approved each year.
What Makes a Strong Nomination?
Successful applications typically:
- Demonstrate clear historical significance to Bloomington
- Rely on credible and verifiable historical sources
- Show a strong connection between the subject and the proposed site
- Offer educational value to the public
- Help broaden public understanding of Bloomington’s diverse history and heritage
Program Guidelines
Historical signs are intended to educate and inform. Sign text should be factual, concise, and based on documented evidence.
Applications commemorating individuals will be considered only after the person has been deceased for at least five years. Applications commemorating events will be considered only after at least 30 years have passed since the event occurred.
Historical signs will be no larger than 24″ x 18″. The size of the final sign is dependent on the sign location, material, and style of mounting. All costs related to sign design, fabrication, and installation will be paid by the City.
Submit a Nomination
Do you know a story, person, or place that deserves recognition?
Community members can help to preserve and share Bloomington’s history by submitting a Historical Signage Program application.
For more information about the Historical Signage Program, email Julius Mitchell at julius.mitchell@bloomington.in.gov.
