In 1900, Ervin L. Dow at the age of 22, whose department store had been in the Odd Fellows Block of Hampton NH moved to the new Lane building in the Lane Block. The Lane Block, one of the first purely commercial and mercantile spaces in Hampton was built in 1900 as a result of the dislocations of several businesses by the construction of the railway overpass on Exeter Road. The Block first housed Howard Lane's general store and Ervin Dow's department store.

Dow went out of business in September 1900, just a few months after he had opened his new store, and in December 1901, Frank Mason, who had worked for the Batchelder Meat Market for 10 years, opened his own meat store where Dow had been located in the Lane Block.

This sign is shown on the front of the building when it opened in 1900, and just a few months before it closed. We are unsure of where it was moved to but someone took good care of this sign for the past 100 years. It was purchased from a multi dealer antique store in Northwood, NH in 2009 by the most recent owner.

Condition is quite good for its age. Gilt is in good shape. Some black peeling and cracking paint around bordering. Sign has carved elements and corners.

Has evidence of prior mounting to building, various holes along top edge. Currently has two large round hooks for ceiling or wall mounting. Very heavy sign, approximately 50 - 80 lbs estimate.

Measures 179 in long x 17.75 in high x 2 in thick