London, England

Tower Hill Sundial:  The Wooden O is what Shakespeare called the Globe Theatre.  Now, it has been commemorated under foot in London's Bronze O, the outer ring of the Tower Hill Sundial.  Roadside markers present "history in a square."  Here's variation on a theme:  history in an O.  [2009]

London, England

Tower Hill Sundial:  Laid into the outer rim of the sundial are bas reliefs that mark events in London's history.  The original city walls were completed in 220 AD and restored in 896.  Only one thing happened in between:  St. Paul's was built.  Who chooses what to memorialize on a timeline like this?  [2009]

Jacksonville, Alabama

Under Local Authority:  Even if you are not interested in the Forney family, their demographics stand in stark contrast with 21st century norms.  Nine children?  The five sons became Confederate officers.  Now you know why the local historians sponsored a maker.  [2007]

Berlin, Pennsylvania

History as Chronology:  What an impressive resume!  But, what was Mr. Philson's lasting contribution to the town, the state, or the country?  And, under whose authority was this marker erected?  The only thing that interests me is the Whiskey Rebellion.  I'll bet there's an untold story there.  [2010]

Meriden, Connecticut

History as Chronology:  Here's a run-down of Meriden's history: its very own curriculum vita.   Would you hire this town?  I guess there is nothing more objective than chronology stripped of interpretation. Can you identify any maintenance issues in evidence here?  [2009]

Clemson, South Carolina

History as Chronology:  It may have been the home of John C. Calhoun, but the marker isn't about the home at all.  It's about the man, and all it offers is chronology.  It looks like a resume to me.  In fact, you might think he is still looking for a job.  [2005]

Cuba, Alabama

Be Grateful for Graphic Elements:  Graphics are rare on historical markers.  Among graphic elements, maps are even rarer (likewise, textual references to imaginary lines).  This marker is also a good example of 'history as chronology.'  [1985]