FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March
25, 2026
Anaheim Signs Celebrates Nearly a Century of
Craftsmanship, Community, and Innovation in the Heart of Anaheim
New
Book Reveals the Untold Story of Anaheim's Oldest Sign Company — From
Hand-Painted Storefronts to Electric Masterpieces
ANAHEIM, CA —
Anaheim Signs is proud to announce the publication of The History of Anaheim
Sign Company, a richly detailed account of one of Southern California's
most enduring local businesses. Spanning nearly a century of growth alongside
the city of Anaheim itself, the book chronicles the company's remarkable
journey from a modest home-based sign-painting operation at the corner of
Broadway and Anaheim Boulevard to a modern electric sign manufacturer — a
journey inseparable from Anaheim's own transformation.
Founded in the early 20th
century by a craftsman whose hand-painted signs became landmarks of the
burgeoning community, Anaheim Sign Company has served as a visual chronicler of
Anaheim's growth. When John and Helen McConnel acquired the business in 1956,
they brought with them a philosophy of personalized service, deep community
involvement, and meticulous craftsmanship. Under their nearly three decades of
leadership, the company expanded its services, supported local Little League
teams, contributed to the Anaheim Chamber of Commerce, and earned a loyal
clientele that spanned generations.
In 1982, Rick Hobbs — a
long-time employee who had learned the craft from the McConnels — assumed
ownership and guided the company through one of its most pivotal transitions:
the shift from hand-painted signs to electric signage. His strategic investment
in new technologies, equipment, and training, combined with the acquisition of
a California State Contractor's License in 1984, positioned Anaheim Sign
Company as a trusted leader in the evolving advertising landscape of modern
Anaheim.
“Their story inspires
future generations to embrace the entrepreneurial spirit and contribute to the
ongoing narrative of Anaheim’s continued growth and success.”
—
From the Preface, The History of Anaheim Sign Company
About the Book
The History of Anaheim Sign
Company offers a unique perspective on Anaheim's commercial and cultural
evolution — viewed through the lens of a family business that helped shape the
city's visual identity for generations. Readers will discover the meticulous
artistry of early hand-painted signage, the resilience of the company through
economic recessions, the dramatic technological leap into electric signs, and
the human stories of the dedicated employees who built the company's legacy.
Key themes include:
• Anaheim’s growth
from a small agricultural community to a global tourism destination — and
Anaheim Sign Company’s role at every milestone
• The craft and
artistry of hand-painted signage in the pre-digital era
• The McConnels’
legacy of community engagement, employee loyalty, and quality craftsmanship
• Rick Hobbs’ bold
transition to electric signage and the milestone of state licensing in 1984
• Entrepreneurial
insights drawn from nearly a century of adaptation and innovation
• Sustainability
initiatives and the future of signage technology
"This is not just a
business history — it is a love letter to Anaheim," writes the book’s
author. "Told through the unique perspective of a business that has grown
and thrived alongside this extraordinary city, it celebrates the unwavering
dedication, ingenuity, and resilience of the individuals who built this
legacy."
A Legacy Woven into Anaheim’s Identity
Anaheim Sign Company's signs
have adorned the city's storefronts, landmarks, and community spaces for nearly
100 years. From signs created for the Anaheim Packing House and local citrus
growers in the early 1900s, to illuminated displays serving the tourism boom
inspired by Disneyland's arrival in 1955, the company's portfolio is a visual
archive of Anaheim's history. The book draws on personal accounts, historical
research, photographs, and archival materials to bring this story to life in
vivid detail.
The book is dedicated to John
and Helen McConnel, Rick Hobbs, and to every employee whose skill and passion
contributed to the company’s enduring success — "the true heart of Anaheim
Sign Company’s enduring success."
Availability
The History of Anaheim Sign
Company is available now. For media inquiries, review copies, or interview
requests, please contact Anaheim Signs directly.
About Anaheim Signs
Anaheim Signs (formerly Anaheim
Sign Company) is one of Southern California’s longest-operating sign companies,
with roots stretching back nearly a century. From humble beginnings crafting
hand-painted signs for Anaheim’s earliest businesses, the company has grown
into a full-service sign manufacturer serving commercial, industrial, and
community clients throughout Orange County and beyond. With a deep commitment
to quality craftsmanship, community engagement, and innovation, Anaheim Signs
continues to shape the visual identity of the city it calls home.
MEDIA
CONTACT
Anaheim Signs
Anaheim,
California
Phone:
(714) 270-0322
Email:
rick@anaheimsigns.com
Website:
https://anaheimsigns.com
#
# #
