Sign of the Times

http://vimeo.com/1465284

This reminds me of the last time I traveled through Rawlins Wyo. Previously, as an adult I had come to realize this depressing little town of my childhood summers had one cool thing going for it: an awesome collection of vintage signage. Motels, laundry-mats, gas stations, etc. down through the decades of the mid 20th century, with unbelievably cool typography and design.

Except the last time I went through, it was all gone. I mean ALL of it. Every last scrap. It was as if either the town had stupidly decided to pass some sign-modernizing fiat, to wrongheadedly bring them into the 21st century, and in the process rip out the only bit of charm about the place. Or, some collector rolled through and just bought everything up lock stock and barrel.

Either way, it couldn't have been more dispiriting.

p.