Storefront Signs

In the early 19^th century, storefront signage was as simple as a small signboard hanging above the door announcing the proprietor's name or indicating, with a painted or carved symbol, the product or service being provided. By the time of the Civil War, in the 1860s, the Central Business District (CBD) emerged. The CBD was a concentration of commercial buildings, generally laid out along a main road or around a town square. Advertising became more competitive and attempted to draw in the pedestrians as they strolled up and down the street. During the early 20^th century, with the advent of the automobile, advertising grew to large proportions. Signs moved away from the storefront and proliferated every inch of the commercial streetscape. And during the 1920s, chain franchises moved into downtowns with increased intensity, and advertisements for name brand goods and services (specifically Coca-Cola) increased significantly.

Click on the thumbnail below that closely resembles the type of sign in your historic image.

Rooftop	Fascia	Belt
Vertical	Painted Wall	Swing
Electric Bulb or Neon	Window Displays	Ceramic Tile