Dolly Madison (Gone)
Colorado Springs, CO
Photo courtesy Robin McCracken

This faded Dolly Madison sign stood along Colorado Boulevard in Denver, Colorado. By the time of this photograph, the original shop was gone and restaurants occupied the surrounding storefronts. Construction beside the sign raised the familiar question of how much longer this roadside holdover might last. 01-13

Even with its worn lettering, the sign retained plenty of character. It advertised a business that had disappeared while continuing to mark the spot for passing motorists—a little reminder of an earlier Colorado Boulevard tucked among newer establishments.

UPDATE: The Dolly Madison lettering no longer survives. The sign structure was reportedly adapted for Amira Grill in 2021, giving the old advertisement another use. Amira's move along South Colorado Boulevard was documented in early 2022, beginning another chapter at the former shop. 06-26

Country Fair
Denver, CO
Photo courtesy Robin McCracken

Here's the colorful Country Fair sign in Denver, Colorado. A little battered but still cheerful, it gave the garden center a fitting roadside welcome. The playful lettering and artwork made the place look ready for spring, even if the sign itself had weathered a few seasons. 01-13

Country Fair Garden Center traces its history to 1948, serving generations of Denver gardeners with plants, supplies, and advice. The old sign complemented that business nicely, showing that memorable roadside advertising didn't always need neon. Sometimes bright colors and an imaginative design did the job.

UPDATE: Country Fair relocated from Colorado Boulevard to South Lowry Square, celebrating the new store's grand opening in April 2017. The garden center remains in business, although the whereabouts of the vintage sign pictured here remain unknown. Good to see the longtime business continuing to help Denver gardens grow. 06-26