American Sign Museum

The American Sign Museum, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a unique cultural institution dedicated to preserving, documenting, and celebrating the art and history of American signage and advertising. Established in 1999 by Tod Swormstedt, former editor of Signs of the Times magazine, the museum showcases a diverse collection of signs, artifacts, and memorabilia that span over 150 years of American sign-making history.

Housed in a historic warehouse building, the American Sign Museum features over 20,000 square feet of exhibition space filled with neon signs, hand-painted signs, gold leaf signs, and other iconic examples of American signage from the late 19th century to the present day. The museum's galleries are organized thematically, with exhibits that explore different styles, techniques, and trends in sign design and advertising, as well as the cultural, social, and economic impact of signage on American society.

Highlights of the American Sign Museum's collection include vintage signs from businesses, theaters, restaurants, and other establishments, as well as neon artworks, billboard advertisements, and roadside attractions. Visitors can view iconic signs such as the original Aladdin's Lamp sign from Las Vegas, the Big Boy statue from Bob's Big Boy restaurants, and the iconic "RCA Victor His Master's Voice" dog and gramophone logo.

In addition to its exhibitions, the American Sign Museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and special events for visitors of all ages. These programs include workshops, lectures, and demonstrations on sign-making techniques, as well as behind-the-scenes tours of the museum's restoration workshop, where visitors can learn about the process of restoring and preserving historic signs.

The museum's gift shop features a variety of sign-related merchandise, including books, posters, t-shirts, and vintage signs, allowing visitors to take home a piece of American sign-making history. The American Sign Museum is also available for private events, corporate functions, and group tours, providing a unique and memorable setting for special occasions and gatherings.

Whether you're a design enthusiast, history buff, or simply appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of vintage signage, the American Sign Museum offers a fascinating and nostalgic journey through the colorful world of American advertising and signage, celebrating the creativity, innovation, and ingenuity of the nation's sign-makers and artists.