
the 1917 Highway Railroad crossing sign
By 1916, California voters overwhelmingly passed bond measure to initially construct a state highway system. Prior that the California Railroad Commission had enacted legislation for the adoption of the railroad crossing signs. In 1917, they adopted a standard signage. Similar to that AAA road signs with a white enamel bordered black lettering.

It should be noted the speed limit was fifteen miles per hour when approaching a railroad crossing.
Tim