Preserving the history, legacy and future of the Borscht Belt
A historical marker system commemorating the famed era
Preserving the Past
Preserving the Past
Preserving the Past
Established in August 2022, the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is a group of locals, artists & historians dedicated to commemorating the history of the Borscht Belt, a celebrated era in American Jewish life, American culture and Catskill history. Our mission is the creation of a large-scale historic marker trail that permanently c
Established in August 2022, the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project is a group of locals, artists & historians dedicated to commemorating the history of the Borscht Belt, a celebrated era in American Jewish life, American culture and Catskill history. Our mission is the creation of a large-scale historic marker trail that permanently cements the famed era in its physical place while paying tribute to its legacy. Enhanced by photographs and QR codes, when complete the 20+ marker trail aspires to be united by a self-guided audio driving tour.
Whether on or near sites of significant events or historic properties, the Marker Project selects locations apropos to the era and the present day. Our historic markers are intentionally placed on public domain lands and in existing public spaces, parks, and locations where people can easily maneuver.
Beyond guiding visitors through a literal roadmap of history, the Marker Project, along with its accompanying public programs rolled out at each historic marker dedication, fosters community engagement, a sense of social connection, and deepens the relationship citizens and visitors have with the region's vibrant past.
The Marker Project
Preserving the Past
Preserving the Past
Prior to our initiative, there were no historical markers commemorating the Borscht Belt era. As of now, we have established 15 historic markers, on our way to a trail system of 20+ by 2027.
When completed (estimated in 2027), the permanent marker trail, along with the accompanying audio tour, will encourage visitors to explore the landsc
Prior to our initiative, there were no historical markers commemorating the Borscht Belt era. As of now, we have established 15 historic markers, on our way to a trail system of 20+ by 2027.
When completed (estimated in 2027), the permanent marker trail, along with the accompanying audio tour, will encourage visitors to explore the landscape and discover the various towns that were central to the Borscht Belt era. The project aims to be a fun, educational endeavor that invites people to experience the physical places tied to this history, while also promoting economic development and tourism throughout the region.
The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project goes beyond just markers. It includes a variety of initiatives such as film screenings, exhibitions, architectural tours, bus tours, and events celebrating authors, literature, live music, local food and more.
Our dedication ceremonies and public programs are free and all are welcome. Our goal is to combine history and adventure, offering an immersive, educational, community-oriented experience, full of joy, as the era intended.
Our Fiscal Sponsor
Preserving the Past
Our Fiscal Sponsor
Our historic markers are generously funded 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 interest. Cooperating wit
Our historic markers are generously funded 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 interest. Cooperating with local Historical Societies, Communities, Churches and Synagogues, the Society encourages dialogue and interactive recognition of the commonality of the American Experience.
PUBLIC PROGRAMMING AND EVENTS
With 15 locations now on the marker trail there are more ways than ever to explore the stories of this iconic region.
Our lively dedication ceremonies include guest speakers who are hotel and bungalow colony descendants and workers, town officials, local representatives and individuals who have a connection to the Borscht Belt.
Each dedication ceremony is complimented public programs which further aim to celebrate the era through film screenings, arts and literary expos, architectural tours, musical performances, DJ sets, immersive slideshows, cocktail hours, local food, drinks and art. and more!
We’re thrilled to share that FIVE new Borscht Belt Historical Markers are coming in 2026—bringing our trail to 20! We’ll be announcing the towns and events very soon. Stay tuned!
May the Borscht be with you!
OUR PARTNERS
FIVE markers in 2026!
Locations include -- Ferndale • Roscoe • Rock Hill • Lake Huntington • Wurtsboro (forthcoming)