TTC interior advertising signs, or “car cards,” have served two purposes. First, they have been a source of revenue for the TTC. Advertisers have paid for space on streetcars, buses and subway trains to promote their products, such as clothing and foodstuffs. Second, car cards have been an excellent form of print public service announcements. Car cards have covered etiquette issues, advertised fare changes and new services, and aimed to raise public awareness on various topics. The designs reflected the best of commercial art of the era, and in some cases concepts and images were shared between transit agencies.
“Hats Off” to our riders! To Mr. Bill More for not blocking the door! [between 1939 and 1949] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 152.
“Hats Off” to our riders! To Mrs. McTush for avoiding the rush! [between 1939 and 1949] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 154.
We all like him…the man who does not drape his feet into the aisle [between 1939 and 1949] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 240.
We all like her…the shopper who travels before or after rush hours [between 1939 and 1949] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 155.
Canada’s first subway 1954 Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 235.
Crosstown or direct to downtown 1966 Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 284.
Call your stop to know when we’ll stop [ca. 1985] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 339.Seating Courtesy…allow elderly or disabled persons to sit in priority seats [ca. 1995] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 347.Support crime stoppers: your anonymous tips may help solve a crime and earn you a cash reward. Trans AD donated advertising space to the Crime Stoppers Program to feature these ads, which were launched in 1987. [1987] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 303.
We need more drivers: we’re growing to serve growing Toronto – More subways + more buses + more routes = more jobs 1967 Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 416.
Join our team [between 1980 and 1990] Fonds 16, Series 244, Item 417.