Louisville's Classic Signs

Signage has a unique place in the world of media.  It is an advertising message that can endure for decades, can become a landmark for navigation or simply represent a brand that can become a permanent part of residents' memories.

We are collecting here images of some of Louisville KY's most beloved signs from all points of the city and from every decade.  We aren't just looking for 'old' signs -- tho' those are welcome here -- but also signs that define a moment or brand that is remarkable and uniquely Louisville.

We welcome submissions!  You can email photos or addresses of them to us at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it with any message, story or information about the sign.

Louisville is filled with great signage and we want to encourage the creation of MORE memorable, resonant signage.

       

      

Horton's sign is hand made -- that's a unique characteristic and it lends to a really home-town feel, which the entire neighborhood has.  Hat's off to Larry for his great, classic sign!

Vintage signage is one of our favorites -- older signs that endure and remind us of our youth -- but we are also looking for newer, really remarkable signs, too!


Here are a couple from my Bardstown Road A-Glow walk last night -- iPhone photos don't capture the beauty of neon signs at night, but I did my best!

Doo-Wop Shop is a long-standing business in the muscial intrument sales and rental business -- their signs have withstood the tests of time!

       

Exposed neon, like on these signs on Bardstown Rd, adds instant 'mood' to a sign, especially at night.  It's an investment in fabrication, maintenance, and the cost of the electric draw they demand.  I love these business owners for keeping their neon in good condition!

Why Louisville, on the other hand, is a relatively NEW business, in a new location, but they invested in what I consider an "instant classic" sign -- using retro design and classic materials, they have made their mark on Louisville's signage landscape!  If you haven't visited this place and you are a Louisville fan, you are missing out!

I'm still needing some images from more far-flung locations in Louisville, outside of my normal stomping grounds of downtown and Highlands!  Feel free to send me YOUR favorite sign image -- This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .
  
 


I recently took a drive down Preston Highway to scope out some of our more Southern neighborhoods for classic signs, and there were several.  It appears many older signs are now being replaced by EMC's - electronic message centers -- which may someday be charming, but now tend toward the garish.

In any case, there are several great examples to enjoy!

          
General Rubber's sign is one of my all-time favorites!  I love how they apparently made their sign out of the materials they sell - plastics and rubbers.  It's not the easiest to read, frankly, but I find it absolutley charming and memorable -- some of the best qualities of a Classic Sign!