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Penn Barrel
Photographer: Mark Stroup
Date: March 13, 2004
Place: 3100 block of Liberty Avenue, Strip District, Pittsburgh
Why this sign?
It's a building that's a barrel for barrel making and sales. I'm sure architectural critics have a term for this. It's a pun; it's self-referential; it might have something to do with using the materials you know; it might be a great way of showcasing the strength and durability of barrels.
This is right down the street from Pittsburgh Brewing but I don't know of any association between the two companies. Penn Barrel has a website that says they've been around since 1902.
So the sign itself, "Penn Barrel," doesn't say much. But the building itself is a sign projecting strength and durability. "You can stuff your rubbermaid totes and your tupperware; I'm going to keep it in a barrel."
Posted by Mark at March 14, 2004 04:32 PM
Comments
My mother worked there as a receptionist/secretary in the 1960-70's. It was called Penn Barrel and Cooperage. She did not like her job, nor her alcoholic supervisor. I don't recall her even liking barrels that much. She finally quit.
Posted by: P A Calderone at June 17, 2004 09:12 PM