Neon History

Featured Article :
LAS VEGAS -- Neon signs have a longer history than Las Vegas. However, Las Vegas is now the recognized neon capital of the world, and deserves some recognition for its own history. It was probably not the very first outdoor neon sign in Vegas, but it is one of the oldest still standing and a legacy to the city as well as the neon industry worldwide. The "Welcome to Las Vegas" sign, seen by millions over the years, was designed and installed in 1959. Betty Willis, a commercial artist and neon technician at that time designed this sign and didn't know that it would become the neon legacy that it is now. The sign broke the rules and used a triangular shape versus a square one. There are seven silver dollars represented by circles around the word "Welcome". The word "Fabulous" was added as an afterthought since Las Vegas was considered to be fabulous at the time by local residents who were as proud of her then as they are now. It is truly a 'vintage' neon sign, a rare piece of neon history, and an icon to the city of Las Vegas.

Fish Keg - Vintage Neon in N.Chicago
2233 W. Howard - 1950's

Vintage Chicago outdoor neon and the Shrimp needs repair. Could be a burnt wire or a transformer , but it doesn't affect the great seafood served up here. So check out this old-fashioned market specializing in seafood and homemade salads and join those in the know from all over Chicago to enjoy their fine selection of fresh fish, shrimp, oysters, clams and other selections.

Open until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday, The Fish Keg is also an excellent spot for a late-night bite. Enjoy the greasy fish and chips wrapped in a paper bag, or grab the fried oysters for take-out. Those who come to stock up on seafood find that the line to weigh and purchase fresh fish moves with remarkable speed and that the staff is very friendly and courteous. This one-of-a-kind market, featuring fish from all over the world, is a must-see for Howard Street visitors.

Neon Sign Repair tips by NeonDoc

Neon signs can be tricky to repair, as their are many variables involved such as the age of the sign, the condition of the power supply....old neon or argon gas losing its orginal pressure, and paint that has heated up and "glued" the rubber electrode caps to the glass, making it difficult to remove. Always get an estimate of the repair costs, but also realize that above variables when getting a sign repaired. For outdoor electric signs it is always advisable to turn off the sign while you are waiting for repair. Further damage may occur with 15,000 volts running through an incomplete circuit. Turn off your breaker switch or timer.

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