A historical marker or historic marker is an indicator such as a plaque or sign to commemorate an event or person of historic interest and to associate that point of interest with a specific locale one can visit.

When Americans began taking to the road in force in their automobiles, states sometime joined entrepreneurs in devising ways to get motorists off the highway so they'd stick around a while and spend some money. In 1935, New Mexico became one of several states to promote tourism by putting up its signature large, wooden and rustic brown signs that for more than 70 years have told some of the stories that continue to draw travelers to the Land of Enchantment for its unique history, people and landscapes.

Official Scenic Historic Markers designate historic districts and sites, and mark locations significant to the social, economic, political, scientific, architectural and artistic history of New Mexico, the Southwest and the nation. Marker subjects range from Native American leaders to Spanish conquerors to outlaws. Battlegrounds, landscapes, town sites and ghost towns all have been commemorated on historic markers.

Any person, group, government agency or corporation may submit proposals for markers. To learn more about application guidelines, click here.