In the heart of Syracuse, New York, a unique story is about to be immortalized in stone. The city's beloved green-over-red traffic light, a symbol of local pride and quirkiness, is set to be joined by a new historical marker that will capture the essence of Tipperary Hill's rich history and folklore. This marker, a testament to the power of community and local history, is not just a plaque; it's a celebration of the little things that make a place special. But what makes this story truly fascinating is the journey behind its creation, a tale of persistence, local pride, and a unique twist on historical preservation.
The green-over-red traffic light, an iconic feature of Tipperary Hill, is more than just a quirky attraction. It's a symbol of the neighborhood's spirit and a testament to the power of local activism. In the 1920s, a group of young Syracuse Irish Americans, known as the Stone Throwers, took it upon themselves to challenge the status quo. They hated the idea of Britain's red atop Ireland's green, and so they hurled rocks to break the red light, until the city finally relented and made a permanent change. It's a story of rebellion and local identity, and it's one that deserves to be told.
The new historical marker, a 'Legends and Lore' marker, will commemorate this unique story. But what makes this marker truly special is its green color. All other 'Legends and Lore' markers are red and beige, but this one will be a vibrant green, a nod to the neighborhood's spirit and a unique twist on the traditional historical marker. It's a symbol of the community's pride and a testament to the power of local history.
The creation of this marker is a testament to the power of local activism and community engagement. It began with Michael Walsh, a Tipperary Hill native and former Geddes police chief, who raised his hand at a neighborhood meeting and asked why there wasn't a marker at the intersection of Tompkins Street and Milton Avenue. Over the next three years, he did a ton of work to get the idea realized, reaching out to local journalists and visiting the Onondaga Historical Association to find the necessary primary sources. It's a story of persistence and local pride, and it's one that deserves to be told.
The marker will be unveiled on St. Patrick's Day, part of the annual flag-raising event on Tipp Hill. It's a fitting celebration of local history and a testament to the power of community. The event will feature a proclamation by Syracuse Mayor Sharon Owens, a bagpiper, performances by the Choraliers and students from All Saints Elementary School, and the presence of the Pomeroy Foundation, including its founder, William Pomeroy. It's a celebration of local history and a testament to the power of community engagement.
The marker's unveiling is a reminder of the importance of preserving local history and folklore. It's a celebration of the little things that make a place special, and it's a testament to the power of community. In my opinion, this marker is not just a plaque; it's a symbol of the neighborhood's spirit and a celebration of the unique stories that make a place truly special. It's a reminder that history is not just about the past; it's about the present and the future, and it's about the power of community to create something truly unique.
