Helen ‘The Swinging Girl’ Neon Sign

Swinging rhythmically against the Vancouver sky, Helen ‘The Swinging Girl’ Neon Sign beckons us closer. This isn’t just a sign. It’s a vibrant piece of Vancouver Heights history. Helen ‘The Swinging Girl’ Neon Sign embodies the spirit of a bygone era, a time when neon signs were the height of advertising chic. Originally created in 1956, this sign wasn’t always known as Helen. It was commissioned by Helen Arnold for her store, Helen’s Children’s Wear, located on Hastings Street. Her friend, Jimmy Wallace, owner of Vancouver’s Wallace Neon Company, brought her vision to life. One of his designers, Reeve Lehman, crafted this iconic image of a girl on a swing. The sign, standing at nine feet six inches high and nine feet wide, quickly became a local landmark. Its internal motor and gears give it the unique kinetic quality, making it a rare example of a “swinging” neon sign. In 2007, Helen’s Children’s Wear closed its doors. However, the city recognized the sign’s significance and stepped in to preserve it. The sign underwent a refurbishment around 2010. The “Helen’s” was changed to “Heights,” reflecting its broader significance to the neighborhood. As a tribute to the original owner, the swinging girl herself was officially named Helen. Today, Helen continues to swing, thanks to the joint efforts of the Heights Merchants Association, who cover her electricity bill, and the City of Burnaby, who maintain her mechanicals. Helen ‘The Swinging Girl’ Neon Sign is more than just a sign. She’s a testament to the enduring power of community and the nostalgic charm of vintage neon. She’s a symbol of the Heights, a reminder of a beloved local business, and a testament to the artistry of neon signs.