Well, well, well…another year has gone by and another sign snatched from the historical books. It’s an old story: Money is fueled by an ever-changing mindset toward keeping what was once good and pure. The sign that made you smile throughout the years could be a source of inspiration for future generations to appreciate these gorgeous pieces of metal and glass. Did you know you can restore a neon sign or move it inside the establishment, or even donate the sign to a local neon sign museum that can keep it on public display? If your enthusiasm for how wonderful a sign once was has lost its appeal and you’ve been tempted to take action, it might be time to think about trying some creative new tactics that will assist you in finding a way to save a neon sign. You might be surprised at the three inventive ways you can help save a neon light.
1. Document
Google searches for neon signs have risen by almost 300 percent as people are searching for neon inspiration. The way to approach it is this: Start with a custom neon sign and make a treatment plan. City offices or funding agencies as well as historical societies are enthralled by these designs since they save much time by taking a photograph, which will show the height of the sign and the present condition of the building. Not you? Begin with the building’s age, construction’s age, and materials. Add the number of transformers needed to make a list that can be determined. It’ll explain the most they’ll ever have to do to keep the sign in a certain capacity.
2. Host your challenge
Create and organize your own “save the neon sign” challenge. Group boards and private Facebook pages can be an excellent way to gain positive energy from your friends and family who share similar sign-saving passions. If you’re unable to locate a group that interests you, why not start one? You can upload photos of signs at risk for removal, announce a crowdfunding campaign for the sign you want to see similar to Kickstarter, and gather articles from the past to form a powerful narrative.
3. Find New Sign-Saving Tips
There are many options to preserve custom neon signs. Small and local city planning as well as businesses can aid in the restoration of old neon signs. Use the National Park Service, Secretary of Interior’s Standards (Standards) to get direction. The 1991 Preservation Brief No. The 1991 Preservation Brief no. 25 will provide information about the details of historic signs as well as best practices, as well as provide details on the kinds of regulations that might exist.
If you find all this confusing, you should speak with a sign preservationist. Here are a few suggestions to be able to provide additional information, research support, and general advice.
- American Sign Museum, Cincinnati (OH)
- Museum of Neon Art (MONA), Glendale, CA
- Ignite Sign Art Museum, Tucson, AZ