Famous Signatures

We all know the story of John Hancock. The American Founding Fathers were gathered around to sign the Declaration of Independence. They knew that by putting pen to paper they were effectively signing their own death warrant if they did not end up winning the Revolution. Some Founding Fathers intentionally made their signatures small or illegible but not John Hancock. John Hancock proudly signed his name larger and clearer than any of the other men, declaring that he wanted to be sure that the British could recognize his name. 

The name John Hancock, after this memorable incident, became synonymous with signature. When a distinctive form of identification is required on a document people will often ask for your “John Hancock.” In this post we want to pause and recognize a couple other special signatures. 

If you are a fan of luxury brands then you most likely readily recognize the signature of Tommy Hilfiger. 

The American fashion designer made his personal signature a singular part of his line of apparel. As a result of placing the Tommy Hilfiger signature front and center, the man has made himself synonymous with the upscale fashion and lifestyle brand.

Edgar Allan Poe’s signature, upon first glance, looks like a signature that would belong to someone like Edgar Allan Poe. The poet and author, who is most famous for short stories that convey a sense of gloom and melancholy, has a legible signature that still appears to belong to a man who was thoughtful and creative. The smooth curves and flowing script clearly belong to a man who was a prolific wordsmith. 

No post about signatures would be complete without mentioning Disney. Walt’s signature is the first thing you see every time you sign into Disney +. At the start of every Disney movie you see the name Walt Disney scrawled underneath a castle. 

So as you are developing your own custom signature think deeply about what you would like it to express. This is your one unique chance to show the world with just a few flourishes of the pen who you are and what you're all about.