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According to Merriam-Webster, signage is defined as: signs (as of identification, warning, or direction) or a system of such signs. The first known use of the word signage was in 1949.

Where did signs originate? How have they been displayed and what materials were used in the past?

The history of signs dates back to when humans first figured out a way to express themselves artistically. Starting with the symbolic cave paintings of early existence and evolving with the bright and modern digital city, signs and symbols have been used to capture moments, advertise goods and services or communicate feelings.

Visual displays that are usually associated with modern signs are thought to have been introduced more that 2000 years ago by the Greeks and Romans. Typically made of stone or terra cotta at that time, these signs used imagery more than text since the written word was not in general use, well established or understood by everyone. The signs depicted specific symbols to identify businesses like taverns, workshops and other merchants.

Image: Nick Fraser

After the Dark Ages ended and commerce expanded, the need for signs grew dramatically. In 1389, King Richard III of England, for instance, passed a law requiring any establishment, that served ale, to place a sign in front of its building.

At first, “trade” signs were fairly utilitarian, but soon signs where showing up with logos that included real and mythical animals, swords and shields along with popular pagan and religious symbols. In order to keep pace with competitors then, as today, businesses realized that their signs needed to become more elaborate and fresh.

Later, signs became larger and used more ornate materials like hand-carved wood, wrought iron and gold leaf.

As people increasingly began to congregate in cities, signs actually became a danger. Roads in urban areas were small and crowded and ordinances began to be established to control the size and placement of signs even relegating that they be removed or fixed flat against a wall.

Around the turn of the 18th century, new technologies like gas lighting, the industrial printing press and electricity began to shape modern signage. Businesses and artisans now had even more options when developing signs and they began to realize the role that creativity and individuality played in attracting customers.

After World War I, with the increased use of mass production and improvements in plastics, larger quantities of signs became easier and more affordable. The creation of changeable signs (the ones with the letters that always have funny misspelled words on them – or a mischievous individual rearranges them) gave businesses the opportunity to mix and change messages using a single sign.

Today, the sign industry generates an estimated fifty billion dollars annually. There are hundreds of printable materials and millions of colors along with a broad range of shapes and sizes.

Even with all the changes and new technologies, one thing remains constant: Signs are used as an effective way of communicating information and promoting your business. America First Sign Company LLC can help develop and create the right one for you!

Image: Terrabass