Totem Pole Shopping Center (Rem.)
Hazel Dell, WA
Photo courtesy Jeff Raber

Along busy Highway 99, the old Totem Pole Shopping Center sign still does what it was built to do, catching the attention of passing drivers. It's refreshing to see a vintage shopping center sign that hasn't been replaced with a modern plastic one just yet. 09-05

The center takes its name from the famous Totem Pole Restaurant that once stood nearby. That longtime roadside stop was known for serving one of the first Kentucky Fried Chicken franchises on the West Coast, and even had a live tree growing through its roof. While the restaurant is gone, the shopping center sign is still carrying on the name.

UPDATE: The shopping center remains open, and the vintage roadside sign still survives though all of the neon totem pole lettering was removed. 07-26

Uptown Plaza
Richland, WA
Photo courtesy Joel Davis-Aldridge

The tall Uptown Plaza sign is a real eye catcher, especially with the atomic symbol perched on top. It's the kind of roadside landmark that could only have come from the Atomic Age, and it still gives this shopping center plenty of personality. Even after all these years, the old marquee does a much better job of getting your attention than most modern shopping center signs. 03-06

The center opened in 1949 during Richland's rapid growth alongside the Hanford project. Back then, the futuristic atomic symbol fit right in with the town's identity. Today the plaza has a mix of shops, restaurants, and local businesses, but the vintage sign is still what makes the place memorable. It's one of those roadside survivors that's worth slowing down to appreciate.

UPDATE: The shopping center remains open, and the classic atomic-themed marquee continues to welcome visitors. 07-26