A national foundation has awarded funds to Downtown Houston Inc. for a historical marker on Grand Avenue.
The William G. Pomeroy Foundation awarded $1,950 to the organization to place a maker near a new Emmett Kelly Sr. mural display south of the Houston Senior Center. That project was the effort of Barbara White, a local artist.
Member Brenda Senter spearheaded the effort, which will place a marker that gives information about the life of Kelly, who grew up east of Houston and went on to international fame in the circus, TV and film industries as “Weary Willie.” He died in 1979. Kelly saw his first circus at Yukon. An annual festival in Houston honors him.
“We are grateful for the support from the foundation to complete this project,” said Brad Gentry, Downtown Houston president.
A dedication will occur in April 2025 during the festival.
Since 2005, the foundation has funded more than 2,400 signs across the country. It has grown to offer six signature marker grant programs in addition to marker programs funding through partnerships with nonprofit, municipal and academic organizations.