Toys R Us Signs: A Landmark of Vancouver's Neon Past

In May 1997, the Toys 'R' Us sign on West Broadway in Vancouver was designated as a landmark worthy of heritage conservation. This iconic sign, once the largest and most recognizable in North America, has become synonymous with the city's neon-lit history.

Designed by the BowMac car dealership in 1958, the sign stood out for its unique font, design, and shape, which distinguished it from other signs of the era. Its sheer size made it a prominent feature on Vancouver's skyline, visible from as far as 18 miles away. In fact, it was the largest illuminated structure in the city outside of the BC Electric Building downtown.

The BowMac sign was not only a marvel of engineering but also a work of art, covered with hundreds of bulbs and neon lights that created an orange glow that could be seen from afar. Its design was a testament to the city's reputation as North America's neon capital in the 1950s, when Vancouver boasted a large number of signs, showcasing the best of artisanship and technology.

Despite its popularity, the sign faced opposition from the city's planning and heritage departments, who passed legislation in 1997 to preserve it. However, by the 1960s, the neon craze that had swept Vancouver began to wane, and many signs were outlawed due to stricter bylaws.

Today, the Toys 'R' Us sign stands as a testament to Vancouver's rich history of innovation and design. While some may view it as unsightly or excessively large, its designation as a landmark worthy of preservation and revitalization is a nod to its significance in the city's cultural heritage.

Located at 1154-1176 West Broadway, the sign is now part of the Toys 'R' Us store, with a metal screen depicting the iconic logo covering a significant portion of the original design. While it may no longer be the largest or most recognizable sign in North America, its legacy as a symbol of Vancouver's neon past continues to shine bright.

Toys r us signs