I love the prevalence of multi-generation signshops. Paraphrasing Old Fezziwig’s sage words in A Christmas Carol, a family business isn’t simply a means of earning a living – it’s a way of life.
Toledo (OH) Sign Co. embodies such a legacy. In 1965, owner Orvid Heil sent his son, Brian, to paint a wall mural on a brick building at the corner of Waterville and Providence Sts. to promote Townsend Stores, which operated a “five-and-dime” shop with a soda fountain. Brian painted the logos for Royal Crown Cola and Vernor’s ginger ale. The following year, a fire inside the building destroyed the store, and it was shuttered.
Earlier this year, the building’s current owner, Chuck Plymale, called Toledo Sign and inquired about having it repainted. Brian had since sold the company to his sons, Brad and Brian, but remains involved with the shop, and eagerly accepted the opportunity to repaint the “Walldog” job. Although the building, which was built in 1890, is now home to a pizza place, a beauty salon and a homebuilder’s office, Plymale wanted the mural’s original character intact. Toting a hog-bristle brush, oil-based paint, a yardstick and a scaled drawing, Brian returned to Waterville and Providence.
“It felt good to do this,” Brian said. “Our company hasn’t done this kind of work in about 40 years, but it’s great to keep this kind of history alive.”
Approximately half of the project’s funds were covered by a community-development block grant, which Plymale found to match his funds. Brian said the project required approximately 40 hours to complete, double the time he needed as a younger man. However, he said he probably spent 10 of those hours speaking with passersby.