Our Famous Roadside Sign

Briarcliff Congregational Church is known to many as “The Sign Church”. Since 2011 Joan Austin has been our “Sign Lady”, using the sign to announce church events and share thought-provoking or amusing messages, both religious and secular.

A former history teacher, Mrs. Austin often highlights historical anniversaries like the 800th anniversary of the Magna Carta. After the 2015 attacks in Paris, the sign featured Thomas Jefferson’s quote, “All men have two countries, their own and France”. The signs are also shared on social media and the 2015 World Series message: “God doesn’t take sides. The sign lady does, Let’s go Mets!” gained national attention.

Pedestrians often stop to express their appreciation. One friend mentioned that the sign reading “Hope is a better companion than fear” helped her navigate a difficult period in her life. The hope is that these thoughtful uplifting messages will speak to people.

We have the Nicol family to thank for our sign. They were donated in memory of John Nicol, a long time church member, and updated in 2016 thanks to the Nicols and BCC’s Women’s Society.