alestake

Noun

 * 1)  A stake or pole serving as a sign at an alehouse or inn, often with a garland or "bush" attached.

Usage notes
The alestake of medieval taverns was mounted horizontally from the wall of the building. The term is not in current use. Modern aleposts can be set vertically in the ground or be attached horizontally to the pub and carry a painted sign rather than a garland.