Hobo Signs

Hobo Signs: A portfolio of 20 relief etchings 1980

Hobo Signs, 1980
These 20 relief etchings are examples of a sign symbol language used by the North American Hobo in the early decades of the 20th Century.
This is a dangerous place or neighborhood.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
The doctor who lives here won't charge for his services.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Do not trust the person who lives here.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Halt. Go no further.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Food is available.
Broken leg of chair means you will have to work for it; the cross means you will probably have to listen to a sermon.
Relief etching 6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Don't speak, hold your tongue.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
A law officer lives here.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Beware - a crime has been committed here. Move on.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
You may sleep in the hayloft.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Barking dogs - bow wow.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
The dipper upright means there is alcohol in this town; inverted means temperance.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Hit the Road! Jack!
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Quiet, day sleepers or babies.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
This is a sign of a pigeon, a sucker, an easy mark.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
The owner is in - if reversed the owner is out.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
X marks the spot - here is a good place for a handout.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Be prepared to fight or defend yourself.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
This road has been spoiled by other hobos.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
Beware a man with a gun is near.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet
This ia good road to follow.
Relief etching
6"x6" on 11"x15" sheet