Reflecting on a Depression Era Sign

Simple changes are my favorite kind of home project. You know...moving a piece of furniture, adding some artwork, changing out the pillow covers. Simple changes that make things just feel right.

This simple project involves a light that we put in a few weeks ago. See Star Light, Star Bright, First Star...is My Kitchen Light. We've simply added of a single piece of art to that same space for some warmth, interest, and inspiration.

STEP 1: 

A few weeks ago, we changed out the light...(for full post see Star Light, Star Bright, First Star...is My Kitchen Light)

(Move your mouse over the image to see the before and after! NOTE: If you are viewing this in a reader, you'll have to visit the post to view the effect.)

STEP 2:
I added some character above the sink with this small Depression Era sign.

(Move your mouse over the image to see the before and after! NOTE: If you are viewing this in a reader, you'll have to visit the post to view the effect.)

STEP 3:

Wait! There is no step 3. Unless you count taking photos a step. Nah, we won't count it. Two steps is all!!

The sign is an authentic hand-painted sign from the Depression Era. I picked it up at Sue's "Garage Sale" last August. I laugh at the term garage sale, because Sue Whitney's (of JunkMarket Style) version of a garage sale rivals any flea market, antique store, or junk shop. See here, here, and here. If you look at this sign close up, you can see the pencil outlines and the brush strokes of the ink. Old school sign making at its finest!

I've wondered about the sign and what it meant. Why would Depression Era employers not cash paychecks on payday? Perhaps it was because the employer didn't have enough money to cover everyone. That's just a guess though. Or maybe they didn't want the employees to spend their money carelessly over the weekend.

I love the historical significance of the sign. Like my recent inspirational toaster project, it provides an unexpected conversation piece in an unexpected place. As we all face the current recession, it also reminds me to be grateful each day.