HARRISBURG PA – Some of the blue-and-gold roadside plaques that describe locations and events in Pennsylvania history, known as historical markers, may go temporarily missing in Berks and Chester counties.
The public need not worry, the Pennsylvania Historical & Museum Commission recently announced. Missing markers are being taken into special shops for routine maintenance, it says, and will be returned after being refurbished.
The commission annually conducts cyclical maintenance on markers in up to seven counties each year. Besides Berks and Chester, its 2026 cycle also includes Philadelphia and Northampton counties.
With 62 counties and more than 2,500 historical markers, the statewide work can take several years to complete. Markers are restored in batches, and take several weeks to refinish.
‘High-Quality Craftsmanship’
The commission says it hires small business contractors known for “high-quality craftsmanship” to complete the restorations. They can include welding, structural repairs, sandblasting, and applying fresh coats of paint.
While awaiting refurbishment, the markers are stored in a separate off-site facility. If taken for restoration, the markers’ poles will display a yellow vinyl maintenance tag.
“We are dedicated to maintaining these markers to ensure they remain pristine and legible for visitors and future generations,” according to Andrea MacDonald, director of the state Historic Preservation Office.
The markers, she notes, are “vital storytelling tools that reflect the diverse and vibrant history of our communities. We are deeply committed to preserving these stories.”
Photo provided by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
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