A trip down memory lane: Vancouver's iconic signs
Take a look at some of the city's most well-known signs from over the years
Few things represent a city's urban identity better than its street signs.
As Vancouver considers its first major update to sign bylaws in almost two decades, CBC took a look back at some of Vancouver's most iconic examples.
You can give your feedback on signs to the City of Vancouver through its online survey.
The Great White Way
At one point Granville Street had one of the highest concentration of neon signs in the world. Before bylaws were put in place in the 1970s, neon signs decorated every possible space. Detractors claimed the abundance of bright signs took away from the city's natural beauty.
The Vogue Theatre
One of the last remaining theatres of "Theatre Row" in the heart of Vancouver is the Vogue Theatre. Its sign has been a part of Granville Street's history for many years. Opening in the 1940s, the Vogue is considered a heritage building and a reminder of the Vancouver of old.
BowMac Sign
The BowMac sign has created quite a bit of controversy over the years. Originally erected by the Bowell MacLean car dealership in the 1950s, it has since merged with a Toys R Us sign, creating what many consider to be a major eyesore on Broadway. It's currently designated as a landmark worth protecting by the city, despite many calls in the past to have it dismantled.
Save On Meats
One of the survivors of Vancouver's neon light bylaw, the sign in front of Save On Meats is one of Hastings Street's most recognizable. The sign is over a half-century old.
Woodwards "W"
A distinctive landmark of Vancouver's skyline, the "W" has sat atop the Woodwards building since the 1940s. As seen in the picture, the original "W" is now encased in glass on the ground near the building, while a new energy efficient version is displayed on a small replica of the Eiffel tower.
Orpheum Theatre
Named a National Historic Sight of Canada, the Orpheum Theatre has been a Vancouver centrepiece since the 1920s. The theatre has hosted many Canadian and international musicians, lecture series, and unique events over the years. It was refurbished in 2009, but the original sign remains.
Dude Chilling Park
Though not quite as historic, the Dude Chilling Park sign achieved its own degree of fame. Originally created as a prank, this Mount Pleasant sign is now recognized as public art. After it was discovered and taken down by the Vancouver Park Board, the sign went viral and an online petition was circulated. The sign was reinstalled permanently in 2014.
