By Frank Balton Signs | The Family’s Heritage Since 1875
For nearly 150 years, the Balton family has been part of the history of signage—first as skilled craftsmen in the late 19th century, and later through Frank Balton Signs, founded in 1966 by Frank Balton. From hand-painted wooden storefronts to today’s high-tech LED displays, signage has always been more than wayfinding—it’s a medium for storytelling, branding, and community identity.
Here’s a look back at how signage has transformed since 1875, and how Frank Balton Signs continues to blend tradition with innovation.
1875–1900: The History of Handcrafted Wood and Painted Signs
Long before the company’s official founding, the Balton family was hand-lettering wood and metal signs throughout Memphis.
Key characteristics of this era:
- Hand-painted wood and metal panels
- Ornate lettering and gold leaf for elegance
- Sign painters were respected tradesmen and artists
Impact:
These signs weren’t just functional—they were works of art, showcasing the pride businesses took in their image.
1900–1930: The Introduction of Lighted Signs
Electricity revolutionized signage. Businesses began outlining their signs with incandescent bulbs, a pivotal moment in the history of signage.
Highlights:
- Electric bulbs made signs visible after dark
- Theaters and department stores embraced lighted marquees
- Nighttime visibility boosted local commerce
Impact:
For the first time, signage worked 24/7, drawing customers well into the evening.
1920–1950: The Golden Age of Neon
Neon’s colorful glow transformed American streetscapes.
Highlights:
- Custom-bent glass tubes produced vibrant letters and shapes
- Neon became synonymous with nightlife and entertainment
- It merged artistry, engineering, and branding
Impact:
Neon wasn’t just signage—it was culture. Iconic neon installations became neighborhood landmarks, some of which Frank Balton Signs has restored. (See Smithsonian Magazine’s “Vibrant Tour of America’s Neon Signs“ for a deeper dive.)
1950–1975: Acrylic and Other Plastics Transform Fabrication
The post-war era introduced acrylic and other plastics, making signs lighter, more durable, and more affordable. By 1966, Frank Balton founded Frank Balton Signs, formalizing the Balton family’s legacy into a dedicated company.
Highlights:
- Acrylic faces replaced heavier glass in many applications
- Channel letters gained popularity for retail storefronts
- Mass production improved consistency and accessibility
Impact:
Professional signage became scalable and accessible to more businesses, ushering in a modern approach to brand presentation.
1975–2000: Digital Printing and Early Electronic Displays
Advances in printing and LED technology reshaped sign production.
Highlights:
- Wide-format printing delivered full-color, photographic-quality graphics
- Early electronic message boards gained popularity for banks and schools
- LEDs began replacing neon for energy efficiency
Impact:
Signage became more versatile, merging traditional craftsmanship with emerging technology to meet new marketing demands.
2000–Present: High-Tech, Energy-Efficient, and Interactive Signage
Today’s signage reflects both tradition and cutting-edge innovation.
Highlights:
- Full-color LED displays show dynamic, programmable content
- Eco-friendly materials reduce environmental impact
- QR codes and interactive kiosks engage customers
Impact:
Signs are now adaptive and responsive, central to modern brand perception. The Beale Street arch in Memphis illustrates how lighting and design create an unforgettable sense of place.
Frank Balton Signs: Bridging Past and Present
As one of America’s oldest continuously family-connected sign makers, we’ve:
- Painted signs in the 19th century through our family heritage
- Installed many of Memphis’s iconic neon pieces
- Embraced digital fabrication methods for today’s clients
- Restored vintage signs to preserve community history
This unique lineage lets Frank Balton Signs honor the artistry of the past while pushing the boundaries of modern signage.
Why This History of Signage Matters for Your Brand
Understanding the history of signage isn’t just nostalgia—it reveals how signs shape brand perception and customer experience. From wood to neon to LED, each advancement has amplified signage’s power to connect businesses with their audiences.
Choosing Frank Balton Signs means choosing a partner who understands both tradition and innovation.
The Future of Signage
Looking forward, expect:
- Smart signs with real-time updates
- Sustainability-focused materials
- AI-driven design and placement recommendations
No matter how advanced technology becomes, our mission stays the same: helping businesses tell their stories through exceptional signage.
Final Thoughts
The story of signage is the story of business, innovation, and community identity. From hand-painted wood to neon brilliance to today’s digital displays, signage continues to evolve—and so do we.
At Frank Balton Signs, we’re proud of our Balton family heritage dating to 1875 and our official founding in 1966. Whether you need a modern LED sign, a restored neon classic, or custom fabrication, we bring generations of expertise to every project. Contact Us Today to create signage that tells your story.