In 2022, Marisa founded the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project, with a group of artists and historians. The group is dedicated to commemorating the history of the Borscht Belt, a celebrated era in American Jewish life, American culture and Catskill history. Their 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 will be united by a self-guided audio driving tour.

The Marker Project is designed to engage both those who lived through the Borscht Belt era and those newly intrigued by its history. By blending traditional historic markers with modern elements like QR codes and multimedia, the project strives to create an immersive experience that appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds.

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.

When completed (estimated in 2026), the permanent marker trail, along with its audio tour, will encourage visitors to explore the landscape and discover the various towns that were central to the Borscht Belt era. Prior to this initiative, there were no historical markers commemorating the Borscht Belt era.

As of late 2024, the group has installed nine historical markers, with six more planned for 2025. Marker dedications will continue into 2026 until the trail is completed.

Scheinfeld at Kiamesha Lake dedication, Courtesy RW

The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project goes beyond just markers. It includes a variety of initiatives such as film screenings, exhibitions, bus tours, and events celebrating authors, literature, comedy, music, and more. Additionally, we are creating a self-guided audio driving tour. All public programs associated with the historic marker dedications are free. Our goal is to combine history and adventure, offering an immersive, educational community experience while fostering economic growth and tourism in the region.

Visit www.maytheborschtbewithyou.org for more information.