Sign, trade sign

Cast iron trade sign, in the form of beaming sun with a face, 18th century. This sign hung outside Gorton & Sons at 146 Whitechapel High Street from 1885 onwards. At this time Gorton & Sons specialised as a vetinary chemist. Hanging shop, business and tavern signs were particularly popular in the 18th and early 19th century when literacy levels were low and customers were not always able to read written signs.

The origins of the sign are unclear. It could have come from 'The Golden Sun' apothecary shop established at nearby 144 Whitechapel High Street between 1796 and 1802 by MIchael Colesworthy. Samuel Cheshire later run the business, until in 1850 J. G Gorton & Sons took over the property. When number 144 was demolished around 1885, Gortons moved to next door 146, and remained there until the building was destroyed during the Second World War. The sign may also have originated from another building or location. Sun Fire Record records dated 17 July 1793 list George Gorton, chemist, as having a property in Sun Yard, Nightingale Lane - a small court off Bishopsgate Street. George Gorton died in 1827, and the business was taken over by John George Gorton.