Grand Forks, a city steeped in history, is home to a fascinating collection of 'ghost signs' - those faded, hand-painted advertisements that cling to the brick walls of its historic buildings. These signs, often barely visible, are a testament to the city's rich commercial past, dating back to the late 19th century. The Grand Forks Historic Preservation Commission (GFHPC) has embarked on a mission to uncover and preserve these ghostly remnants, recognizing their value as historical markers and works of art.
The process began with a meticulous walk through the city's streets, comparing peeling murals with archival photographs. GFHPC coordinator Susan Caraher led the effort, documenting these ghost signs with care. She emphasizes the importance of understanding their significance, as some are visible, while others have faded or been obscured. This endeavor is part of a broader national conversation on preserving ghost signs, with local historians prioritizing their restoration or documentation.
The city boasts 643 properties on the National Register of Historic Places, and many of these locations bear the marks of their commercial past. These vintage advertisements, also known as 'fading bricks' or 'brick ads,' originated between the late 19th century and the 1950s. Despite some being lost to time, many remain visible, earning them the title 'ghost signs.'
One such example is the Coca-Cola mural on the Odd Fellows Block Apartments building, added to the NRHP in 1982. This building, constructed in the Richardsonian Romanesque style, has housed various organizations throughout history, including the Odd Fellows fraternity. The mural, restored by local artists in 2025, depicts the iconic Coca-Cola logo, a symbol of American history.
Another intriguing ghost sign is the McDonald's Good Clothing advertisement on the Stratford Building, now Tea and Crepe. The building's history dates back to 1902, with the original Masonic Temple. A significant fire in 1912 led to the construction of the current structure, retaining remnants of the past. The site showcases a blend of early commercial and vernacular-craftsman architecture, reflecting the changing trends of the time.
The Wholesale Grocers sign, located on the back of the Grand Forks Mercantile Co. building, is another notable ghost sign. This building, added to the NRHP in 1982, has survived major fires and the Flood of 1997. It combines Italianate and early commercial architecture styles, a testament to the city's architectural evolution.
The Holt Printing ghost sign, located at 211 S. Fourth St., is a large mural that once housed an influential printing business. The building features early 20th-century commercial vernacular architecture, including decorative inlays around Chicago-style windows. However, the mural is partially obscured by modern additions, making it a challenging subject for interpretation.
These ghost signs offer a glimpse into the city's past, reflecting the businesses that have come and gone. They serve as a source of adventure and history, with GFHPC coordinator Caraher emphasizing their importance in preserving the city's cultural heritage and unique community identity. By documenting and preserving these signs, Grand Forks ensures that its past remains alive, providing a tangible link to its local and commercial history.
