Greensboro, North Carolina – Gate City Signs & Graphics employed high density urethane foam in its recent commission to replace the ageing signage at the Guilford Courthouse National Military Park near its home in Greensboro.
As well as creating a permanent monument sign to replace the old post and panel sign, the company was commissioned to recreate the colourful historical sign, with the affectionate local name of ‘Sad Drum’.
The replica of the original sign was made from a high-density urethane foam that hardens when painted. The company says this should last as long as the main sign. An artist was engaged to replicate the design of the original Sad Drum sign.
The meaning of the drum has been subject of much speculation over the years. It is assumed to be the face of King George III as a sad Humpty Dumpty, whose kingdom couldn’t be put back together. The sign also shows the red and blue NC militia flag, a French flag, and a variety of war implements.
‘This was an amazing project to be involved with and one that’s close to my heart,’ said Gate City Signs and Graphics owner Jim Helms. ‘I’ve frequently run through the Military Park and trained for races there. And I purposely selected my business location to be nearby the park. So, it was an honour to design and install this sign right in our backyard.’
