‘Ghost signs’ is the name given to old adverts that were once painted onto the side of buildings which are still evident today or inscriptions of old businesses.
Here’s a round up of some of Sunderland’s Ghost Signs that offer a window into the past, from old cigarette adverts to court buildings.
9. P S, Borough Road
Peter Smith Antiques operated for decades on Borough Road and the warehouse still bears the late antique dealer's initials. Plans are now in place to transform the building into The Street, which will support and boost grassroots theatre in the area.
10. Durham Book Centre, Albion Place
Hard to make this one out, but we think it reads Durham Book Centre, which certainly fits with its location on the corner of Albion Place. A much-loved and long gone shop, it sold all sorts, from second-hand books to records and badges.
11. Post Office, West Sunniside
Now apartments, the old Post Office in West Sunniside is a grand old building designed by Henry Tanner in 1902, who was behind a number of Post Office buildings in the country.
12. Hutchinsons Buildings, Mackie's Corner
Mackie's Corner is the colloquial name for the Hutchinson's Buildings, so called after hat maker Robert Mackie whose hats would be displayed in the windows. Built in the 1840s by local businessman Ralph Hutchinson, the Hutchinson’s Buildings were a popular shopping destination that housed some of Sunderland’s first fashion shops.