A massive batch of amazing transit posters centered on 1920s Chicago has been compiled by Imprint Magazine. They're not never-before-seen, just well worth remembering. Contrasting with the superfluous imagery of prohibition's gangsterland, the poster art campaign of Samuel Insull and others pushed the progressive ideals of urban recreation and country retreats as made possible by mass transit. many of these posters celebrate sense of place or the rawness of industry, and no doubt planted powerful images in denizens of the day. Glorified? For sure. But when can transit not use a little glorification? Observation: Ever notice how Amtrak leans on this type of marketing design to lend identity to their various routes? [Imprint]
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