Historic sign advocate Jennifer Montgomery with Wallace Real Estate is helping put a spotlight on the underappreciated art form of hand-painted signs, including through a recent screening of the documentary, Sign Painters.
The film, which explores the history and craftsmanship of sign painting, was sponsored by Wallace Real Estate and presented by Knox Heritage as the historic preservation network highlights its Save our Signs grant initiative. Approximately 60 guests attended the screening, which took place Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Central Cinema, 1205 N. Central St.
Montgomery’s love for old signs began with the historic JFG Coffee Company sign, specifically the illuminated sign from the 1950s.
Lacey Mellott, Knox Heritage director of development & communications; Erin McIntyre, Knox Heritage marketing & special events intern; Christine Cloninger, Knox Heritage executive director; Hollie Cook, Knox Heritage director of education & research; and from Wallace Real Estate: Jennifer Montgomery, Rebecca Bleidorn and Jim Bleidorn
“After lightbulbs were taken from the sign, I remember sitting in my living room and making the bulbs into Christmas ornaments, which we sold at craft fairs,” said Montgomery, an agent with Wallace Real Estate. “The proceeds went into the Save our Signs grant fund, which has about $11,000.”
As part of the 50th anniversary celebration for Knox Heritage, the nonprofit unveiled its community preservation grant program, including Save our Signs, which provides up to $5,000 to rehabilitate historic signs in the region.
Visit Knox Heritage Preservation Grants for additional info about the Save our Signs initiative and community preservation grants.
About Wallace Real Estate
Wallace Real Estate, trusted since 1936, is a leading real estate firm in East Tennessee. Known for its full-service approach, the firm provides its agents with the latest technology, comprehensive training and marketing support to ensure the highest level of service and success. Through comprehensive training, technology and marketing support, Wallace Real Estate bolsters the careers of more than 425 agents, ensuring they have the tools needed to succeed in the competitive real estate market. More at WallaceTN.com.
About Knox Heritage
Knox Heritage is a community of preservationists focused on advocacy, education, investment and engagement. The nonprofit is passionate about Knoxville’s heritage and serves as guardians to the spaces and places that make Knoxville such a dynamic and thriving place to live, work and visit. Knox Heritage’s mission is to protect Knoxville’s unique character for future generations by preserving, restoring and transforming historically significant structures and places. Learn more at knoxheritage.org.
Kate Spears is the social, media and events specialist for Wallace Real Estate and can be reached at kate@wallacetn.com.
