Heritage Inventory:  n/a.
Heritage Designation:  n/a
Why Endangered:  Neglect.  Lack of awareness.  Lack of protection.

One of the characteristics that most creates the sensation of being in an historic commercial area is painted signage, in need of protection along with murals and other forms of external signage such as sculpted relief.

Downtown New Westminster’s history has been rich with painted signage, a primary and simple tool of early businesses at once to advertise, and at the same time to convey an impression about their business through typographical art. 

Modern businesses still use the technique where there is a wall to spare and a view for people to see the sign. Such early businesses as the City Market and the Burr Block Apartments, the Central Livery and the Occidental Hotel, had painted signage.  Old signs had messages that read things like, “Oyster Bay Restaurant, Pioneer after the Fire.  Meals 25¢.” 

This is a particularly vulnerable form of heritage, and while they convey a sense of history, few remain, and fewer remain where they are likely to be seen.  One example of surviving painted signage is the on the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce building recently purchased by the city – hopefully, the city will preserve the carved entry sign to the “Chamber” at the front of the building, and the painted “Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce” sign on the side of the building.

In one historic district in Washington State, such painted signage is recommended by the city guidelines.  In Monterey, California, steps have been taken to preserve views of painted signage in historic districts.  Painted signage is recognized in many cities as an important heritage element, and one which requires specific protections and steps to survive in the long term.  Other cities encourage painted signage with heritage style to enhance the heritage character of a historic district.  Some of New Westminster’s remaining painted signs are themselves partially painted over or badly fading. 

This charming and intriguing character heritage element will be a thing of the past if steps are not taken to protect, preserve, and enhance the painted signage in our city.