Burlingame's Historic Severn Dairy Wallscape

In June 2000 the Regan Building on California Drive in Burlingame was demolished to make way for a new structure. When the walls came tumbling down on this mid-1920’s building, a surprise was in store. On the adjoining building, hidden from view for over 70 years, was a beautiful piece of 1920’s Americana. Looking quite clean and unscathed, a full 14’ x 53’ wallscape advertising the Severn Lodge Dairy was revealed. Painted sometime between 1917 and 1925 this colorful advertisement features a smiling boy driving a milk delivery cart across a stylized silhouette of San Francisco. 

   Over the next few years the wallscape began to deteriorate significantly. Through the efforts of Burlingame Historical Society board member Jennifer Pfaff and major funding from Clear Channel, the sign was restored to its original color and vibrancy. Read about the Discovery & Restoration and the The Lost Art of Sign Painting.

   You can also read a historical perspective on the Burlingame Dairies, or just enjoy these photos from the offical rededication ceremony on Sunday, October 19, 2003.