Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project

Preserving the Past

The mission of The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is to interpret and designate places important to the Borscht Belt’s vibrant history and to consider its impact on American Jewish life, the legacy of the Catskills, New York State history, American culture and entertainment, and the ways in which the era’s rich history is enduring

As of our inception in 2022, there are no historical markers dedicated to the Borscht Belt era in either Sullivan or Ulster County.

Whether on or near sites of significant events or historic properties the Marker Project’s efforts strive towards selecting locations significant to the local, state, and national history in towns and villages scattered across the Sullivan and Ulster County landscape.

Markers will intentionally be placed on public domain lands and not on land that may have future development and get knocked down. By utilizing existing public spaces, parks, and locations where people can easily maneuver, this project will attract foot traffic from locals and visitors alike.

This large-scale interpretive project will benefit the communities they are placed in by sparking interest in local history, be easily accessible to the public and educate citizens and visitors alike about the events that have shaped our past.

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The Marker Project

Preserving the Past

Our goal is to create a comprehensive marker system and self-guided audio driving tour that traverses the region along with an array of public programming and educational materials.

The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is more than just historic markers. It is a multi-faceted effort with both short-and-long-term goals that combi

Our goal is to create a comprehensive marker system and self-guided audio driving tour that traverses the region along with an array of public programming and educational materials.

The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is more than just historic markers. It is a multi-faceted effort with both short-and-long-term goals that combine other mediums, including the creation of an app for a self-guided audio driving tour, a series of exhibitions and public programs such as film screenings, literary, comedic and musical events which aim to expand upon the marker experience, curricula for students and the local Orthodox community, all aimed at furthering history, education, and dialogue about the Borscht Belt in an array of formats.

When complete, the permanent marker trail combined with its audio tour and compendium programming will encourage people to venture out into landscape and visit the various towns that comprised the era. Juxtaposed with the Catskill’s natural beauty, the driving tour will be inclusive of all the various towns and villages where documented hotel and bungalow colonies once existed. In this sense the project aims to be a fun, educational endeavor that encourages the experience of physical place while also promoting economic development and tourism throughout the region.

Marker dedications will commence this summer, fall, and continue into 2024.

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Our Sponsor

Preserving the Past

Our Sponsor

The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is generously supported by The Jewish American Society for Historic Preservation, a non-profit, volunteer organization. The purpose of the Society is to identify and recognize sites of American Jewish Historical interest.

The Society sponsors and promotes programs of local and national historic i

The Society sponsors and promotes programs of local and national historic interest. Cooperating with local Historical Societies, Communities, Churches and Synagogues, the Society encourages dialogue and interactive recognition of the commonality of the American Experience.

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