Geotype Submission

The Geotype project charts the rich history of lettering and type forms that have established the identity of cities and towns around the world. Explore the map

How does this letter-form communicate its location?

I struggled to find any reference to Hansell’s Coal Merchants but their sign still adorns the side of a building which is nestled down one of the historic Rows. A sought after commodity in the later 19th early 20th century, the ‘Coal Office’ was located in the middle of the poorest neighbourhoods with good links to the port. The letter forms are simple, and hand painted. I wonder how the number 231 relates to the sign – if at all? The slight curvature of the name suggests an acknowledgement of brand and may have been used on vehicles or other buildings.

Location

South Quay, Great Yarmouth NR30 2RG, UK