Fully funded grant program accepting applications through June 30
Legend has it that Washington Irving based his “Sleepy Hollow” character Ichabod Crane on a teacher from Kinderhook. There’s a tale in Charleston of an outgoing hermit named Amos who danced for pennies. Local lore in Flushing says a bear attack was thwarted by a man wielding his own crutch. In Fly Creek, Honey Joe Road is thought to be named for a bootlegger who concealed his wine in beehives.
These intriguing stories – and many others across the Empire State – are being recognized through a creative roadside marker program launched by The William G. Pomeroy Foundation in partnership with the New York Folklore Society. Dubbed the Legends & Lore Grant Marker Program, the initiative was established to promote cultural tourism and commemorate legends and folklore in New York.
“From curious characters and elaborate hoaxes to strange sightings and tall tales, the Legends & Lore Program showcases unusual stories rooted in the historical past,” says Paula Miller, Executive Director of The William G. Pomeroy Foundation. “We’ve fully funded more than 35 of these specially designed markers across New York and we’re looking forward to receiving more grant applications.”
The Legends & Lore program is currently accepting applications on www.wgpfoundation.org. The deadline to apply is Saturday, June 30. Municipalities and charitable 501(c)(3) organizations in New York are welcome to apply for grants. Local historical organizations or municipal historians will often apply on behalf of property owners.
For information about all of The William G. Pomeroy Foundation’s Historic Signage Grant Programs, our grant guidelines and how to apply, visit: www.wgpfoundation.org or call (315) 913-4060.
