The photo at the top of the page is a Marshalite Traffic Signal.  They were used in Melbourne, Australia from about 1936 until 1970, and are even mentioned by Edward Tufte (one of my personal idols), in a rather esoteric discussion about traffic signals on his website blog.

The photo itself was taken in front of the RAVC building in Melbourne, where they have incorporated one of the signals as artwork right at the entrance.  Quite fitting.  There were also variations of the light which included a Walk/Don’t-Walk face as well.   If you’re really interested, you can find out not only about the Marshalite signal, but many other Australian Traffic signals here at the HobbiesPlus blog, but beware, it might be a bit of an overdose.

One thing I particularly like about this signal is the idea that it is superior to newer signals.  It indicates clearly when traffic can proceed, and gives you a relative feel for how much time you will have to cross the intersection, or how much time a pedestrian will have before the next cycle.

It reminds me quite a bit of a recent Wired article about parking signs: “A Redesigned Sign So SImple That You’ll Never Get Towed”.

I find it remarkable how technology often improves an experience in some ways, and forgets the lessons learned up until that point.  Perhaps some Silicon Valley engineer can create a new start-up that comes up with a better traffic signal sign with visual cues.  I’m certain many cities could use it.