Modesto

Designer: Jim Parkinson // Foundry: Parkinson // Country of origin: United States Release years: 2000–2003 // Classification: Glyphic

Jim Parkinson has made a habit of translating the styles of hand-letterers and sign-painters — particularly those of America — to typefaces. Modesto incorporates various elements of early 20th-century lettering, with its simplified, monolinear Gothic construction, short descenders, bowed “A,” and tiny serifs. The family features a carnival of options, from narrow to wide, and inlined to outlined. And despite Modesto’s natural proclivity for Display settings, there are Text weights. These happen to be an interesting option for anyone who seeks a lowercase in the style of Copperplate Gothic, the popular turn-of-the-century typeface with a similar structure and serifs. Good for: An antique, handmade feel. Wholesome, vintage Americana.