For centuries, bar signs have been used to advertise the presence of pubs and taverns. Many of these signs were ornate works of art, designed to attract attention and draw customers in. Today, a variety of different bar signs are still being used for both aesthetic appeal and practical purposes; this article will explore the history behind them and why they’re still relevant today.
History:
The first known use of a bar sign dates back to medieval England, where innkeepers hung wooden or metal plaques outside their establishments to identify themselves as “alehouses.” These early alehouse signs were often brightly colored and featured simple images such as lions, dragons, or eagles. As more types of alcohol and beverages began to be made available in pubs, more intricate signs were created.
By the late 18th century, bar signs had become much more ornate and featured scenes from popular literature or even famous political figures. One of the most famous examples is “The Prince of Wales’ Sign,” which was commissioned by King George III for his son, the future King George IV. This sign became a symbol of British patriotism and still exists today outside several London pubs.
Modern Uses:
Bar signs are still widely used today to advertise different types of establishments, such as pubs, bars, clubs, breweries, and distilleries. Signs can be designed to show various images or logos on them, allowing businesses to easily stand out from the competition. They can also be used as a statement of values or beliefs, or just to add an aesthetically pleasing touch to the exterior of a building.
Many bar signs are made out of durable materials such as wood, metal or even plastic and can be illuminated with LED lights for added visibility. This makes them particularly useful in environments where there is low lighting, such as at nighttime or in dimly lit areas. In addition, illuminated signs are much more likely to attract attention than non-illuminated ones.
Bar signs have been around for centuries, and they remain an important part of the bar culture today. A well-designed bar sign can be a great way to attract customers, promote your establishment, and create a sense of identity for your business. Beyond being visually appealing, bar signs are also a useful tool for communicating with customers and conveying key information about the bar’s offerings. This article will explore the history of bar signs and why they’re still relevant today.
The earliest known examples of bar signs date back to Ancient Rome, when taverns used simple symbols such as animals or plants to indicate what type of drinks they served. In Medieval Europe, elaborate illuminated manuscripts were often used as a form of advertising, and in the 18th century, signs featuring painted images of mouths or tongues became popular. By the 19th century, bar signs had become much more sophisticated, with both text and artwork often used to convey information. In the United States, barroom signage evolved rapidly throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries as neon lighting was increasingly used to draw attention to establishments.
Relevance Today:
Today, bar signs remains an important part of the drinking culture. Many bars still use traditional signs featuring brightly colored letters or pictures to indicate what type of drinks are available. Modern bar signs often incorporate LED lights or digital displays in order to create a vibrant atmosphere and attract customers from afar. Additionally, many businesses now use personalized signs to advertise their unique offerings, such as special events or happy hours. In the end, bar signs remains a great way to draw attention and make a statement about your establishment.
Conclusion:
Bar signs have a long and interesting history, and they remain an important part of the modern drinking culture. They’re a great way to attract customers, promote your bar’s offerings, and create a unique identity for your business. Whether you choose to go with traditional signage or something more modern, bar signs are sure to be eye-catching and make a statement about your establishment.
