MO-17 1920 (Missouri) (Road Sign) Hoodie - Design Description

This design pays homage to the early days of Missouri's highway system, specifically the iconic MO-17 road sign from the 1920s. The artwork boldly captures the essence of this historical marker, a symbol of Missouri's pioneering spirit in road construction and route designation.

The Emblematic Design

At the heart of the design is the distinct outline of the State of Missouri itself. This unique shape, used as a highway marker, immediately identifies the state and its commitment to infrastructure development. The white background provides a clean canvas, while the black border and numerals create a striking contrast that is both simple and effective.

The "17" displayed prominently within the state's borders represents Missouri Route 17, a specific road recognized and numbered in this initial period of road organization. This number, in bold black, is centered, making it the focal point of the design. The simple style of the numerals reflects the era's design aesthetic.

Historical Significance

The absence of unnecessary flourishes and its straightforward design makes this sign symbolic of the early 20th century. It embodies a time when Missouri was at the forefront of establishing a state-wide road network before the U.S. Highway System was created. The design embodies simplicity, practicality, and the importance of accessible information.

The design echoes the original road signs used when Missouri was among the first states to implement a numbered highway system. Wearing this design is a nod to a significant era of Missouri history.