The St. Clair Shores Historical Commission would like to recognize the unique history of the City by identifying and publicly recognizing its longstanding structures through a Historical Marker Program.

Owners of homes or commercial structures that were built in 1951 or earlier will be eligible to apply for a plaque identifying its historical significance. The plaque will have a black background with silver lettering. For structures that are one hundred years old or older (100+), the plaque will have a black background with gold lettering. The “historical marker” plaque will cost $125.00* which shall be paid by the applicant. Receiving a “historical marker” plaque will not affect the owner's ability to update his/her property or structure.

In order to participate in this program, the owner must complete an application and provide documented proof of the age of the structure. If the precise year of construction cannot be established, a “C” for “circa” shall precede the year identified.

Documented proof may consist of a copy of the original deed, (b) the City of St. Clair Shores Assessor’s Property and Land listing, and (c) pictures of the exterior of the structure. Additional documents, if available, can be provided. For example, a copy of the City Directory listings for the relevant years that show the street before and after the structure was built, letters of support, newspaper articles, oral histories, etc. All documents and photos that are submitted with the application shall become the property of the St. Clair Shores Historical Commission and cannot be returned.

Once the application and documentation have been received, the St. Clair Shores Historical Commission will determine if the property has met the eligibility criteria set forth. The applicant will be notified as to whether the application has been approved. If additional information is required before the application can be reviewed, the owner will be notified of the deficiency and will be given the opportunity to submit it in a timely manner. If the application is approved, the owner will need to remit a check for $125.00 (made payable to the Historical Society of St. Clair Shores) to the St. Clair Shores Historical Commission. Upon receipt of the check, the plaque will be ordered and arrangements can be made for an onsite dedication ceremony; at which time, the owner can place the marker at the entrance of his/her structure commemorating its year of construction.

* Price subject to change