The Wyoming State Historical Society is offering cash grants to people involved in historical research activities based on various aspects of the state’s history. The grants, ranging from $100 up to $1,500, are awarded based on applications submitted to the Society’s Lola Homsher Endowment Fund Committee. The deadline is February 28, 2018 with applicants notified of the results in the spring. All applications must be submitted electronically.

Committee chair Leslie Waggener said this is an exciting opportunity for amateur and professional historians, and could be the financial impetus to further research on a wide range of subjects. 

“Each year we receive applications from individuals involved in writing books, conducting oral histories or even restoration projects," Waggener said. "The Society is pleased to be able to assist researchers advance their efforts with these funds."

Grants are drawn from a fund established by the late Lola Homsher, a noted historian and state archivist. Waggener said one of Homsher’s most significant contributions to preserve Wyoming history came when she spearheaded establishing the Wyoming State Historical Society in 1953. After her retirement, Miss Homsher made a major donation to the Society that has been used as an endowment to help fund Society programs.

The committee reviews all proposals and makes awards after the selection process has been completed, usually in spring.  Preference is given to proposals that promise original research on topics related to Wyoming history. Wyoming residents are also given preference, but all applications are welcome. Proposals must include a statement of purpose, an explanation of the project, the value to Wyoming history and a description of how the public will benefit from the research.

Waggener said it is rewarding to see the variety of research topics being explored around the state. Last year’s recipients used funds to enhance their research on topics ranging from community halls, to Cheyenne’s African American Community, to the 11^th Ohio Volunteer Cavalry on the Overland Trails. Waggener said the Society welcomes applications that touch upon all aspects of Wyoming’s history. All recipients must provide the Society with a final report about their projects.

Applications and rules can be obtained by visiting the Society’s website at www.wyshs.org, under "Programs" and “Homsher Endowment.”  Electronic proposals are due February 28.