Donations needed for markers in Iola
Greg Loescher was on a biking vacation in Kentucky when he noticed a number of historical markers in the area.
He brought the idea back to the Iola Historical Society as a way to preserve the community’s history.
The Historic Iola Marker Program then began, and placed its first marker at the Iola Winter Sports Club on Feb. 7, 2010.
“Our Historic Iola Markers cover the history of the Iola area from the Native American and early European settlers days all the way up to the end of the 20th century,” Loescher said. “These markers will remain standing for many decades, providing for both residents and visitors historical information on important people, buildings and events that otherwise would most likely be forgotten over time.”
Since the inception of the program, 14 markers have been placed citing historic moments and buildings throughout the Iola area.
Tentative plans indicate four additional markers will be put in place this year, with two more planned annually from 2021 and on.
At the present time it is projected that there are 25 locations within the village of Iola that deserve recognition.
Each sign costs between $3,200 and $3,500 depending on the number of words and pictures used.
Loescher is the program’s chairperson and donated the cost of the first marker.
Most of the other signs were paid for by other individuals or organizations.
The Iola Historical Society is now looking for others to help fund the program.
Those who want to help may send checks payable to the Iola Historical Society at: Iola Historical Society, Attn: Historic Marker Program, P.O. Box 412, Iola, WI 54945.