Vintage Signs of Upstate New York

Ghost sign for Fiorentini Jewelers in Cortland, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Faust Motel, 151 Main Street (New York State Route 3) in Tupper Lake, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Wayne Drugstore in Oswego, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Endicott Florist in Endicott, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Bloch Bros’ Mail Pouch Tobacco sign in Fort Edward, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Martha’s Dandee Creme in Queensbury, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Royal Motel sign along Route 11 in North Syracuse, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Former neon sign for Crystal Restaurant in Watertown, NY. Photo by Michael Kleen

The Spot Cocktail Lounge in Alexandria Bay, New York. Photo by Michael Kleen

Lately I’ve been obsessed with old signs–neon signs, ghost signs, populuxe styles, etc. They represent a living memory of the past, and express uniqueness and character from a time when business owners displayed confidence and the promise of permanence.

Nothing lasts forever, of course, especially in the realm of business, but these signs were clearly designed for the long term. Proof is the fact many of these signs have outlasted the businesses themselves. Some, like the Crystal Restaurant in Watertown, New York, beat the odds and have survived for nearly a century.

5 comments

There is something about old signs that makes you wonder about the heyday of these businesses. Upstate New York is filled with a rich history and these signs do their part in communicating our past. My hope is that these signs are preserved to pass down our history.