Victorian street signs provided children with literacy practice, humor, and subtle rebellion opportunities. Kids carved, chalked, or painted messages, jokes, or symbols near official signs. These markings became a language of youth, communicating territory, gossip, or friendship. Graffiti also served as storytelling, maps, or warnings. Parents and authorities often overlooked minor inscriptions. Interaction with street signage reinforced reading, writing, and visual communication. The practice strengthened creativity, social bonds, and cultural commentary.
Street signs and graffiti promoted literacy, expression, and social networking.
It illustrates how urban elements became mediums for youth engagement and culture.
Did you know some children used arrows, symbols, or color codes to secretly guide friends to hidden play areas?
[History Extra, historyextra.com]