Rediscovering the City Through Its Signs
From neighborhood icons to nostalgic memories, signs reflect the soul of the city.
Every sign that once glowed above a corner store or restaurant tells a story. Whether it was a family-run bakery or a bustling Italian eatery like Queen in Brooklyn Heights, these signs were more than marketing—they were part of the urban fabric. At Duke Properties, we believe that preserving these icons helps preserve the identity of our communities.
The New York Sign Museum: A Quiet Revolution
Celebrating the overlooked beauty of midcentury design.
David Barnett’s tireless effort to rescue the Queen neon sign—taking nearly four years to secure it—embodies the passion behind the New York Sign Museum. Located in East New York, Brooklyn, this unique institution is quietly curating a slice of the city that would otherwise be lost: our commercial visual language.
Signs as Anchors of Neighborhood Identity
They’re more than decoration—they’re community landmarks.
The Queen sign, with its glowing red neon and regal flourish in the letter ‘Q’, wasn’t just a restaurant’s branding. It was a beacon in the neighborhood. Much like well-maintained brownstones or preserved facades, signage contributes to a sense of place.
Visual Heritage: Preservation Through Collaboration
A call for developers and city leaders to support grassroots efforts.
As New York continues to redevelop and modernize, more historic signs face demolition. But with proactive collaboration between preservationists, developers, and city agencies, more stories can be saved.
A Brighter Future by Remembering the Past
Let’s honor the creativity and craftsmanship that once lit our neighborhoods.
The glowing, hand-crafted signs of yesteryear are a reminder that New York’s magic is in its details. At Duke Properties, we believe that honoring these artistic and cultural remnants strengthens our connection to the city—and to each other.