In 1389, King Richard II of England passed legislation requiring landlords to hang signs outside their premises selling ale so that inspectors could easily check the quality of ale. This was important because drinking water was often unsafe, so ale was commonly consumed instead. Over time, pub signs evolved to include coats of arms and badges of noble families, which were described in everyday language rather than formal heraldry terms, leading to familiar pub names like the Red Lion and Green Dragon.

1. The History Of Pub Signs
Excerpts from Wikipedia.org’s Definition of Signage

2. WHO KNEW?
In 1389, King Richard II of
England compelled landlords
to erect signs outside their
premises.

3. It Was The Law
The legislation stated "Whosoever shall
brew ale in the town with intention of
selling it must hang out a sign, otherwise
he shall forfeit his ale”
Pardon Me? Forfeit ALE???

4. 8 Glasses A Day?
• This was in order make them easily visible
to passing inspectors of the quality of the
ale they provided

5. 8 Glasses A Day?
• This was in order make them easily visible
to passing inspectors of the quality of the
ale they provided
• During this period, drinking water was not
always good to drink and ale was the
usual replacement

6. The Evolution Of Pub Signs
• Later, the adaptation of the coats of arms
or badges of noble families became
common

7. The Evolution Of Pub Signs
• Later, the adaptation of the coats of arms
or badges of noble families became
common
• These would be described by the people
without consideration of the language of
heraldry

8. The Evolution Of Pub Signs
• Later, the adaptation of the coats of arms
or badges of noble families became
common
• These would be described by the people
without consideration of the language of
heraldry
Thus such signs as The Red Lion & Green Dragon
have become familiar, especially as pub signs

9. Happy St. Patrick’s Day From
The Sign Depot
Enjoy The Ale At Your Pub With This New Knowledge

10. Happy St. Patrick’s Day From
The Sign Depot
Enjoy The Ale At Your Pub With This New Knowledge