“The Oldest Painted Signs in New York City.“
"Office of S. Oppenheimer"" (over left door) & S. Oppenheimer" ( over right door)
Among the many interesting facts his research uncovered, “The signs here at 170 Eldridge St., New York City, read Office of / S. Oppenheimer (over the door to left) and S. Oppenheimer (over the door to the right). But when the Oppenheimers occupied the building (1875-1879) the address was 148 Eldridge St. (the buildings on Eldridge St. were renumbered approximately 1885).
As far as I know these signs with a date range 1875 to 1879 are the oldest painted signs in New York City.” – Walter Grutchfield, Urban Historian and photographer
Visit Walter Grutchfield’s immense website – where you will be treated to not only ghost signs, but photos of fire hydrants, dogs, manhole covers, cemetaries and other urban images – and the intriguing stories behind them. Thanks, Walter!
What are Bungs and Weasands? To find out, you’ll have to read about them here. Hint. You’ll find the answer on page 24.
jacullman 
What an exciting discovery! And for this to be one of the oldest painted signs still visible in NYC, that’s really hitting the jackpot. And thanks for linking to Walter’s site, certainly a kindred spirit.
Thanks Frances! I was so excited to see that — only wish my dad was here to add his “two cents!”