UFC 3-120-01
FEBRUARY 6 2003
Chapter 9
SIGNS FOR HISTORIC BUILDINGS
Section 9A--Introduction
9.1. General Information. The signs in this pamphlet were designed to relate to the architectural
style of most Air Force Bases, but historic buildings may need special identification signs that
complement their distinctive character. Signs intended for use with historic buildings use special
typography and color.
9.2. Usage. The base commander should decide if these signs are appropriate to any areas of the
base. If historic signs are used, they must be used consistently. A Master Sign Plan ensures that all
signs, whether conventional or historic, are installed in a systematic fashion.
9.3. Further Information. Information on sign placement is in Chapter 2. Recommended
specifications and structural details are in Chapter 12.
Section 9B--Typography and Spacing
9.4. Recommended Typeface. Use Clarendon medium, the typeface used by the National Park
Service, for historic building signs. It is a square serif typeface designed in the late nineteenth
century. The letter forms have a strong historic character and good legibility.
9.5. Other Typefaces. There are many versions of Clarendon commercially available. The
Clarendon medium style shown in Figure 9.1 is recommended. Other acceptable typefaces are Craw
Clarendon, a slightly heavier version, and the National Park Service typeface called NPS Modified
Clarendon. Compare all purchased letters with the illustration in Figure 9.1 to ensure conformity.
9.6. Spacing. Unlike the Helvetica typeface described in Chapter 2, Clarendon medium may not be
available in a tile system, in which cases letter spacing must be determined visually. The "normal"
spacing shown in Figure 9.2 is the most legible and attractive positioning of the letters.
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