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Route 66 Era - Indian Trading Post Hanging Kachina Sign

  Lot # T303
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Lot # T303
System ID # 20356118
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Description

Route 66 Era - Indian Trading Post Hanging Kachina Sign

This large and heavy double-sided heavy iron sign embodies the spirit of the Route 66 era, featuring a vibrant, hand-painted depiction of a Kachina figure, a motif deeply tied to Southwestern Native American culture. Designed to hang prominently outside a trading post, this sign served as a striking advertisement to draw in road-trippers and locals alike. Its bold geometric patterns, vivid color palette, and original hanging chains make it a quintessential piece of mid-20th-century roadside Americana.

  • Material: Heavy iron with hand-painted Kachina artwork.
  • Design: Double-sided sign showcasing an intricate Kachina figure with vibrant geometric details and tribal motifs.
  • Mounting Features: Original shoulder-mounted chains for hanging or display.
  • Dimensions: 48" x 16" x 1/16". (Legendary Bob Ross Present for Scale, his Actual Size, 6'2")
  • Weight: 20 lbs.

Condition:

The sign is in good original, unrestored condition, reflecting its use as an outdoor display. Signs of wear include minor paint chipping and areas of corrosion, enhancing its rustic charm and authenticity as a historical artifact.

Dating to the mid-20th century, this sign hung outside a trading post along or near the legendary Route 66, a hub for travelers exploring the American Southwest. Trading posts of the era offered a mix of Native American crafts, regional goods, and souvenirs, blending commerce and cultural exchange. The Kachina design represents a respectful nod to the artistry and heritage of the region’s Indigenous peoples.

A rare find for collectors of Route 66 memorabilia, Americana, or Native-inspired folk art, this sign is a tangible link to the golden age of American road trips. Its robust construction and colorful design make it a standout addition to any collection or display, evoking the nostalgia of a bygone era.