The year was 1964, and the city of South Bend, Indiana was facing economic and social hardships. Studebaker had closed its doors, and the future looked bleak. During this trying time, one man sought to bring hope to his community. Charles Burkhart posted signs throughout the town that read, “I believe in South Bend,” a message that resonated with his neighbors and became a rallying cry for the city.
From this simple message, Burkhart Advertising was born. The company has remained family-owned and operated for three generations, and today it partners with both local and national clients to provide out-of-home advertising solutions that reach more than three million people. Today, Burkhart Advertising remains an integral part of northern Indiana’s business community, with its commitment to South Bend as strong as ever.
During the 1980s, Burkhart’s billboards dotted the Indiana landscape, each one bearing the company’s logo and a message of support for the city. The iconic signs became a symbol of hope and pride for the people of South Bend. A collection of photographs from that time shows people posing next to the billboards, their smiles testament to the impact of Burkhart’s message.
Today, Burkhart Advertising continues to serve as a pillar of the South Bend community. The company’s message of “I believe in South Bend” remains a core part of its identity, and its commitment to the region and its people has never wavered. Through its creative and effective advertising campaigns, Burkhart Advertising has helped to shape the narrative of South Bend. In conclusion, Burkhart Advertising’s legacy is one of positivity, resilience, and community building, a testament to the power of a simple message to unite and inspire a city.
