Printing type; A full alphabet of Johnston wood letter type, 1947

The typeface used exclusively by London Transport (L.T.) is widely recognised throughout the world. It was developed by Edward Johnston and first used in a small capacity in 1916. These wooden printing blocks show the full capital letter alphabet in the Johnston typeface. The blocks were recovered in 1985 from Bournehall Press, one of the printers chosen to carry out work for L.T. By limiting the number of printers used, control could be maintained on the standard of work. By 1919, the typeface was being used throughout the Underground Group, creating a uniform and recognisable company style. It was chosen as the typeface for L.T. when it formed in 1933. In 1979 an updated version, known as New Johnston, was introduced.