Railroad typeface history

[CHamilton]

History Of Typefaces: Industrial-Strength Types

from Smashing Magazine by Alastair Johnston

The industrial-strength types I have been discussing seem like natural choices for cast-iron machinery that emerged during this period of technological change. Today, they are found in contexts where strength or solidity is needed. But there is always a parallel history to the one we write. Forays into Tuscan or the decorative shadow effects of the sign-painter’s palette show that, no matter how straightforward a letterform, there is always an urge to adorn and decorate.

The original “Rocket,” in the Science Museum in London.