railroad signage help

[mike7440]

Hello all. A friend of mine wanted me to do some research on some signage that he believes involves railroads. We have no background on the photo where or when it was taken. I was hoping that people here with their expertise might be able to weigh in and let me know if this looks familiar and what the story is behind it. thanks for your time.


mike

 

[Tacoma Tom]

I don't believe this has anything to do with railroads. It looks similar to a hazmat placard (NFPA 704). I know the Hobos used to leave messages somewhat similar to these for other hobos using their own symbols. You can see some of them here... http://www.worldpath.net/~minstrel/hobosign.htm

 

[Shack]

It looks like a military guideon to me. The X represnts the crossed muskets of the infantry, A = Alpha Company, 9 = 9th Division, 4 = 4 Infantry. Hand painted symbols like this were/are commonly attached to vehicles for unit identification.

Just a guess, but that's what I see.