Signs, Signs (A Preview of an Upcoming Library Program)

Before television, the internet, and even radio, we still had advertising. But how did advertising reach its potential customers without the media we take for granted today? Newspapers, of course, had plenty of ads, but the only way to see them was to buy a newspaper. Businesses wanted to bring the ads to the people, instead of waiting for them to go look for the ads. So why not make use of the large empty spaces on the sides of buildings that people walk (or ride a trolley) by every day?

Of course, advertising methods (and buildings) have changed over the years, but many of these signs live on as "ghost signs," faded images barely visible but surviving as pieces of urban (and rural: "Mail Pouch"?) history.

Who remembers Betsy Ross bread?

There are several ghost signs in Sandusky and undoubtedly many in other communities as well. In a library program this summer (date TBA), Special Collections Librarian Ron Davidson will share images of many of these signs, and discuss the history of the businesses and locations portrayed, including historic views of signs when they were "living." 

In the meantime, can you find ghost signs in your neighborhood? (Don't forget to practice social distancing while you're out!) Feel free to share your images in comments here or on the related Facebook post. If you'd like, we may even present your image at the library program.

Sometimes we can't read them, but know that something was there!