It was implemented in 1937, during the Great Depression, to encourage tourism. The West Virginia Commission on Historic and Scenic Markers worked with the State Road Commission, Works Progress Administration, and Federal Emergency Relief Administration to place 440 markers during the first year alone. After World War II, markers were placed at the sites of most state-run facilities and schools. The West Virginia Historic Commission took over the program in 1963. Since the late 1960s, the program has been managed by the West Virginia State Archives, which is today part of the West Virginia Division of Culture & History.

The State Archives maintains files on each of the markers. Unfortunately, many of these files are outdated because markers have been moved and road names have been changed. In 1996, the Division of Culture & History was awarded a federal Intermodal Surface Transportation Efficiency Act (ISTEA) grant to survey the state's highway markers. An updated markers guidebook is now available.

They were funded by the state until 1985. All markers placed since then have been funded by groups or private individuals. The cast aluminum markers, which include the State Seal, are available for $1,400 with the same inscription on both sides or $1,550 with a different inscription on each side. Pipe and transportation costs are approximately $175. Markers may be installed by the sponsor if they are to be placed on private property, although the Division of Highways must approve of all marker locations. If the marker is to be installed on the state right-of-way, the Division of Highways must do the work. The current cost for installation is $400. All prices are subject to change.

The site, property, district, or community honored with a marker must possess some degree of significance in state or local prehistory (archaeology), history, natural history, architecture, or cultural life. A complete list of guidelines can be obtained from the State Archives.

Approximately 1,000 markers have been placed in West Virginia. However, the recent survey indicates nearly 30% are no longer standing and a majority of the remaining markers are in dire need of repair.

There is no state funding to repair or replace markers. Some historical societies and civic groups assume the cost for refurbishing markers in their counties. Missing or damaged markers should be reported to the State Archives.

Please contact Joe Geiger, Assistant Director of the West Virginia State Archives.

West Virginia Highway Historical Marker Program