The Carrick-Overbrook Historical Society has overcome its first obstacle in getting a historical marker for a former resident -- but a bigger hurdle remains.

The historical group earlier this year was notified that among the 21 new markers that have been approved by the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, is one honoring John M. Phillips.

The new markers will be added to the nearly 2,200 such signs that already dot roads and streets across the state.

John Rudiak, of the historical society, said the Phillips marker will be the first in the area.

"We're proud of this achievement to honor one of our early residents who is largely forgotten, but who was a very important figure in the state and in conservation," he said.

Mr. Phillips was the founder, board member and president of the Pennsylvania Game Commission.

He was also an engineer and industrialist and became one of the most prominent names in conservation in the state. He also helped start the first Boy Scout troop in Pennsylvania. In fact, that troop met in his Carrick home, Mr. Rudiak said.

But even with the marker approved, the historical society must find a way to come up with the estimated $1,350 that the bronze piece will cost.

As the sponsoring committee, the historical society is directly responsible for half of the manufacturing costs.

"In this time of economic uncertainty, however, budgetary cuts may result in a loss of commission funding and may require that we absorb the full cost of the project," Mr. Rudiak said. "We have petitioned our region's elected representatives for grant money, but the state budget is likewise subject to financial difficulties and is not likely to yield the required funding."

Mr. Rudiak said the group is still waiting on approval for a second marker honoring Mr. Phillips' wife, Harriet Duff Phillips.

He said the group has asked that both markers be located at the site of Mr. Phillips' former home, Impton, at 2336 Brownsville Road, Carrick, which is currently the location of St. Pius X Church.

Mr. Rudiak said the group received the endorsements from both Concord and Roosevelt elementary school principals, all of its state and local elected representatives, the Carrick Business Association and the Overbrook Community Council on the project.

Those wishing to contribute should contact Carrick Community Council, P.O. Box 5901, Pittsburgh, PA 15210. Checks payable to Overbrook Community Council.