| 18th Century History |
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Articles and Products of History 18th Century Outdoor Advertising: Its All About SignsBefore the days of satellite media through television and radio, outdoor advertising was the main promotional method in America. It was not uncommon to be traveling down the most desolate road and happen upon a sign advertising a nearby tavern, or inn. These long forgotten displays that were made for the general publics information are now being found and studied. Who made these signs?
An extensive conservation effort by CHS in association with Princeton University Press has rewritten the value and history of these outdoor advertisements. It started with a collection of 65 signs. This is the greatest collection of signs in the United States. These signs were from tavern and inns. A vast amount of research has gone into dating these signs. By doing so, it has helped establish the artists of these great art works. These art works not only were done in paint, but some were done in woodworking and metalworks. This vast array of art work requires specialists in each field to help uncover the information to match the work to its artist. An interesting fact is that some of the signs were painted over more than once. While it brought problems to the table for the conservationists, it also made the experience all that more unique. Todays technology allows for the ability of viewing the underlying art work that dates back in some cases more than 200 years. Many signs can be seen on the traveling public exhibition show. It is entitled, Lions & Eagles & Bulls: Early American Tavern & Inn Signs from The Connecticut Historical Society. Some people may view this genre as folk art, or outdoor advertising, but regardless of the title that is put to it, they are wonderful pieces of history and should be viewed. Today, advertising has changed drastically. Popular advertising methods include billboards, TV, Radio and the internet. One blast from the past are helium blimps to promote events or sales. Other methods are digital printing, advertising balloons, inflatables and Truck side Advertising. As technology develops our methods for outdoor promotions will change and become more savoy to attract more consumers.
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