Why was the plaque program paused for so long?

• After our decades-long relationship with Erie Landmark Company ended in 2024 due to their abrupt closure, we spent the past year searching for a new foundry that could provide affordable, reliable service and the high-quality plaques our supporters expect. This proved more challenging than anticipated as several foundries have closed and material costs continue to rise. We are pleased to share that we are now working with Franklin Bronze Plaques in Franklin, Pennsylvania.

I'm unsure of the year my house was built and/or the architect. How do I find information about my house?

• Basic information, such as year and architect, may be found in the Shaker Heights Building Card Database. If you need further assistance with finding information, please contact our Executive Director at director@shakerhistory.org or the Shaker Heights Public Library. Shaker Library hold many City records and blueprints and shares an excellent guide to researching your Shaker home. 

• Although the Shaker Historical Society does not have many housing records, we are happy to search our archives for material related to your house. Please submit a request through our Research Request form.

How long will it take to get my plaque?

• The current estimate is 4-8 weeks, but this can vary depending on the foundry's ability to secure necessary supplies.

I need my plaque sooner. Can you speed up the process?

• Once we send your information to the foundry, the plaque creation process is out of our hands. They are unable to send us status updates on plaques due to the volume of projects at the foundry.

Can I change the shipping address once I submit my form?

• If you need to update the shipping address, please let us know as soon as possible so we can contact the foundry. A change in address request can usually be accommodated.

I will be on vacation when my plaque is scheduled to arrive. Can I have it shipped to the museum and pick it up?

• Possibly! Please contact us at shakerhistory@shakerhistory.org to see if our schedules align. We wouldn't want the plaque to arrive during a museum closure or major event.

Why are the plaques so expensive?

• The Historic Shaker Heights house plaque program began in 1998 to both celebrate homes in Shaker Heights and support the Shaker Historical Society's mission. The $265 plaque fee includes the cost of goods, shipping, and a $75 tax-deductible donation to support programs, education, and collections care at the museum.