Western Exterminator Company

Here's a shot of the Western Exterminator Company sign that's right off the 405 freeway in Long Beach California. Created in 1931, the "little man" with the mallet has remained a great advertising icon. According to the company, his name was originally Kernel Kleenup, but it did not stick.


This poor quality shot shows a little more detail of the figure. He's actually quite large, as is the little rodent he's warning. I guess the spikes keep birds away. It would be a shame to have an exterminator's mascot covered in waste from a "flying rodent". The little man can be found all over the place, from buildings to the company trucks.

View more information on the Little man here.

Tags: Western Exterminator Signage 405