Chicago City Council Passes Ordinance to Protect Vintage Retail Signs and Preserve Neighborhood Identity
Chicago’s iconic vintage retail signs hold a special place in the hearts of residents and contribute to the unique character of the city’s neighborhoods. Sadly, the wear and tear of time, business closures, or negligence often result in the disappearance of these cherished signs. However, there is good news for those who appreciate these historic landmarks.
The Chicago City Council recently passed an ordinance aimed at protecting vintage retail signage and preserving the identity of local neighborhoods. Under the previous law, if a property owner failed to renew the city-issued sign permit, the new owner was required to remove the old signage. This led to the loss of many beloved signs that were an integral part of the community’s history.
With the newly passed ordinance, commercial signs that are at least 30 years old and possess a degree of character and nostalgia can now remain in place, subject to city review and a renewable five-year permit. This change allows new business owners to incorporate these beautiful, historic signs into their establishments, preserving the essence of the neighborhood.
The inspiration behind this ordinance came from efforts to save the iconic Grace’s Furniture building sign in Ald. Carlos Ramirez-Rosa’s ward. The building is set to undergo redevelopment, but the new owners were unable to keep the vintage three-story vertical sign due to the permit’s expiry under the previous owners. This significant loss prompted Ald. Ramirez-Rosa and Mayor Brandon Johnson to introduce and support this much-needed legislation.
While the ordinance does not grant protected landmark status to the signs or require business owners to keep them, it is a step in the right direction. It addresses the previously undervalued cultural significance of these vintage retail signs and encourages the city to explore further avenues for preserving them.
Chicago’s business districts were once dotted with captivating signs that captivated passersby. The Jansen’s Furniture sign near 111th Street and Michigan Avenue, with its dark brown and white design, and the former Newmann & Associates Real Estate sign at 79th Street and Cottage Grove Avenue, were among the beloved signs of the past. Sadly, both have vanished, much like the vibrant red-lipped neon Magikist rug cleaning signs that once adorned the city’s expressways.
While it’s impossible to turn back time and save every historic sign, the passing of this ordinance signifies progress and a renewed commitment to preserving Chicago’s identity. Though it’s not a comprehensive preservation measure, it marks an important shift away from the destruction of historic signage.
Moving forward, the city should explore additional strategies to safeguard these signs, such as providing protected landmark status or incentives for business owners to maintain them. By ensuring the preservation of vintage retail signs, Chicago can maintain its charming aesthetic and honor the history that resonates throughout its diverse neighborhoods.
In conclusion, the Chicago City Council’s recent passing of an ordinance to protect vintage retail signs is a small victory for the preservation of neighborhood identity. While more can be done, this change signifies progress and a growing appreciation for the cultural value of these iconic signs. It is a step toward maintaining Chicago’s unique character and celebrating its history for generations to come.
