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Stephen Coles
@stewf.com

Here’s Crystal Palace Market in #SaltLakeCity on 13th East near the University of Utah. The photo was taken in 1947, just a few years before my dad ran in to scarf down a few bananas so he could make the ROTC’s weight requirement. He told the story in 1984: stewf.com/stewftone/50... #FathersDay

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Typographica
@typographica.org

Of course, I can’t post that sign without some commentary. It’s a nice example of a classic thick-thin sign painter’s gothic, lit with a single stroke of neon at night. The “DISTINCTIVE SERVICE” lettering is particularly handsome. #Lettering #SignPainting #Signs #NeonSigns #1940s

Typographica
@typographica.org

Back to Crystal Palace Markets. There were five locations in the city. Many had lovely signs. These 1936 photos showcase some that period’s typical lettering – a mix of what we now call Arts & Crafts and Art Deco. If you wanna ref that American era, this is the style. #ArtDeco #ArtsAndCrafts #1930s

Typographica
@typographica.org

Dad’s banana market was the fifth Palace, and last to remain open, serving the university neighborhood until 1988. The sign remains behind the current (closed) facade. It was revealed last year amid renovation, then recovered in plywood. Rachel Quist has the scoop: www.instagram.com/p/DIiFcK3Anmi/

instagram.comRachel Quist on Instagram: "The Crystal Palace Market ghost sign appeared briefly at 240 S 1300 E SLC. I took this photo last night (4/15/2025) and by tonight (4/16/2025) it was covered with plywood...654 likes, 22 comments - rachels_slc_history on April 16, 2025: "The Crystal Palace Market ghost sign appeared briefly at 240 S 1300 E SLC. I took this photo last night (4/15/2025) and by tonight (4...