THEN & NOW
While doing research for my current show “What Remains” I was able to locate some vintage photos of some of the signs I painted. Check out the details in some of these pictures—the cars, the lack of skyscrapers, short or no trees. And some cool buildings.
Ole Bardahl, a Norwegian immigrant, came to the United States in 1922 and settled in Ballard, a community of Scandinavian immigrants located in Northwest Seattle. After purchasing a small chemical company, he developed a unique formula for oil additives. Over the next 20 years the business steadily grew and based on its reputation for quality, the company expanded rapidly across the country and internationally until it became the leading additive manufacturer and supplier in the US.
Situated at the crest of Virginia Street at First Avenue in Seattle, the V.I. — as it’s known to regulars — has a long and colorful Skid Road history dating back to 1903.
Mike’s Chili Parlor has been here in Ballard since 1922. They’ve been serving up the same chili recipe since the days fishermen along the ship canal devoured it in the 1920s and ’30s.
The Elephant Car Wash sign was designed by Bea Haverfield—known also as the Queen of Seattle Neon. The sign was erected in 1956 and stood for 60 years until it came down in 2020. The sign will be restored by Western Neon and eventually be placed at MOHAI.