Hobo Signs: The Secret Symbols of Burglars and Beggars

Origin and Development of Hobo Signs

The first graphic hobo signs appeared in the 16th century as so-called arsonist signs. Gang members used them to inform each other about planned raids, thefts and arson. In the 18th century, the actual hobo signs developed. These secret signs were made with chalk, charcoal or by carving or sometimes also a piece of paper with signs placed in an inconspicuous spot.

There were different types of hobo signs:

• Message signs informed about opportunities to steal or beg
• Recognition signs were used to identify certain people
• Direction signs indicated where a person or group had moved on to
• In addition to the graphic signs, there were also gestural signs (Jadzinken), acoustic recognition signs (Kenzinken) and scars to mark traitors (Schlichnerzinken).

Current Use of Hobo Signs

Even today, hobo signs are still occasionally used in connection with burglaries or begging. There have been reports of hobo signs in Austria, northern Germany and the Münsterland region. In some cases, the signs are also used by newspaper deliverers to mark the stocking of houses.

Overall, however, the significance of hobo signs has greatly diminished. The communication of crooks has shifted to the digital age. Nowadays, crooks use other methods, such as a piece of plastic or an advertising flyer, etc., which are wedged between the door and frame. If it is still wedged after a few days, the crooks know that no one has entered or left the house - so no one is home. Other tricks include a transparent tape over the door lock. If it is still there after two days, no one has been home. Also popular: Moving objects, e.g. garbage cans or flower pots. If the objects are not put back in their usual place, apparently no one is home.

Nevertheless, hobo signs remain a fascinating chapter in the history of secret languages and underground symbols. They provide insight into the world of itinerants, beggars and crooks of past centuries.