Episode 133: Visual Alphabets - Nautical Flags and American Sign Language

Written By Elliot Strunk
 

Signs, signs. Everywhere a sign.

Today we’re going to be talking about a couple of colorful visual alphabets. Not typefaces, but the kinds of alphabets that are their own languages. Created to solve specific problems, one works face-to-face and the other from a distance.

So give the high sign to the bartender and order up a couple of Ocean Breezes. We’re bringing you the histories of American Sign Language and nautical flags back here in the bar.

E X T R A S :

Nautical Flag alphabet chart

(Top to bottom): American Sign Language alphabet chart, Edward Miner Gallaudet

 

Nautical Flags
Nautical Flags: Origins, Uses and Meanings (American Sailing article)
5 Tips for Understanding Nautical Flags & their Meanings (Discover Boating article)
Nautical flags quiz (Safe Skipper)

American Sign Language
Background and history (Wikipedia article)
Edward Miner Gallaudet biography (Wikipedia article)
Slang ASL Videos 1 and 2 (YouTube)
When Gallaudet University Football Invented the Huddle (GU website)

 
Elliot Strunk

Fifth Letter is a communication design studio that applies creativity thoughtfully to deliver joy and drive change. We help smart, curious leaders turn vision into work that connects with customers.

https://www.fifth-letter.com
Next

Episode 132: Game Show Logos for The Gong Show and Match Game (Classic)