Neon sign history:
A glowing journey through time
Introduction
Neon signs have become iconic symbols of bustling cityscapes, illuminating streets and storefronts with their vibrant colours and striking designs. The journey of neon signs, from their humble beginnings to their modern-day prominence, is a fascinating one that explores the intersections of art, technology, and commerce. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these luminous creations have a fascinating history that traces back to the early 20th century.
In this blog post, we will dive into the history, evolution, and enduring appeal of neon signs, from their inception over a century ago to their resurgence in contemporary culture.
Here is an overview of the main topics that will be covered in this article:
Content
Early beginnings of neon lights
- The discovery of neon gas
- The work of Georges Claude
- The development of the first neon light
The rise of neon signs
- The use of neon signs in commercial advertising
- The growth of neon sign companies
- The popularity of neon signs in the 1920s and 1930s
Innovations in neon sign technology
- The introduction of coloured neon lights
- Advances in neon sign design and fabrication
The decline of neon signs
- The emergence of new types of signage, such as LEDs and LCDs
- The impact of World War II on the production of neon signs
- The decline of neon sign companies in the mid-20th century
The resurgence of neon signs
- The revival of interest in vintage neon signs
- The use of neon signs in contemporary art and design
- The continued relevance of neon signs in modern advertising
This exploration sheds light on the science, history, and enduring charm of neon signs, tracing their evolution and impact through the years. Neon signs aren't just bright tubes; they're a part of our evolving relationship with light, colour, and the art of catching our eye in the urban landscape. Join us as we uncover the captivating story of neon signs, one glowing step at a time.
Early beginnings of neon lights
The history of neon signs began with the discovery of neon gas. In 1898, Sir William Ramsay, a Scottish chemist, and Morris W. Travers, an English chemist, found neon while experimenting with liquefied air. Neon, an inert noble gas that exists in minute quantities in the Earth's atmosphere, emits a striking red glow when electricity passes through it. This discovery laid the foundation for the development of neon lighting technology.
The birth of neon signs can thus be traced back to the early 20th century. In 1910, French engineer and chemist, Georges Claude successfully harnessed the unique properties of neon gas by passing an electric current through it within a sealed glass tube with electrodes. This groundbreaking experiment led to the creation of the first-ever neon light, which emitted a mesmerising red glow when energised.
Neon gas discharge tube. Photo credit: Superagent001/CC BY-SA 4.0
Recognizing the potential for commercial application, Claude's demonstration at the Paris Motor Show in 1910 ignited global interest and initiated the era of neon signs as a striking and innovative form of illumination and advertising.
The first widely known neon sign in the United States, dubbed “liquid fire” by a fascinated audience, is widely credited to businessman Earle C. Anthony. In 1922 or 1923, he purchased two signs reading “Packard” from Georges Claude's French company and displayed them outside his car dealership in Los Angeles.
While it can be debated whether these signs really were the very first neon signs installed in the US, they became very popular very quickly and thus marked the beginning of the neon sign era in the United States.
The rise of neon signs
The 1920s and 1930s marked the golden age of neon signs. As urbanisation and electrification surged, neon signs began to adorn the facades of businesses, transforming city streets into vivid, glowing landscapes. The mesmerising glow of neon signs offered businesses an eye-catching way to attract customers and differentiate themselves from their competitors.
Neon sign companies emerged, meeting the growing demand for these captivating displays. Cities like Las Vegas embraced neon signs, turning their streets into vibrant, glowing spectacles.
Paris was the international capital of 1920s neon signs, with landmarks such as the legendary Moulin Rouge. Photo credit: Willem van de Poll/Nationaal Archief/CC0
At the same time, during this era, neon signs became prominent as more than just commercial tools; they became works of art. Artisans and glass blowers took the craft to new heights, developing intricate designs and experimenting with various colours and shapes. The aesthetic appeal of neon signs became a reflection of the cultural and artistic movements of the time, making them not only functional but also artistic statements.
1930s neon signs, such as this fully restored vintage Coca Cola neon sign, are still in high demand from collectors today. Photo credit: Ben Franske/CC BY-SA 4.0
Innovations in neon sign technology
In the 1940s, advancements in neon sign technology allowed for the introduction of a broader spectrum of colours. By mixing neon with other noble gases like argon and helium, signs could now display a diverse range of hues, making them even more appealing to businesses and consumers alike.
Furthermore, the use of mercury in neon sign production had been discovered and implemented earlier. This discovery was crucial in enhancing the efficiency and colour range of neon lighting by allowing for the creation of various vibrant colours through the interaction of mercury vapour and phosphor coatings within the tubes. Mercury is used in neon sign production to facilitate the generation of ultraviolet light within the neon tubes, which then interacts with phosphor coatings to produce the desired colours visible to the human eye.
The impressive external neon signage on the facade of the Radio City Music Hall, opened in 1932, became one of the most famous examples of 1930s ad 1940s neon signs worldwide.
Photo credit: Sebastien Cordat/ Unsplash
In the pre-World War II era, businesses continuously used the potential of neon signs to enhance their brand image and attract customers in a rapidly growing market.
From hotels and casinos to theatres and restaurants, establishments embraced neon signs to create a sense of excitement and glamour. Neon signs became synonymous with quality, elegance, and a touch of extravagance, effectively communicating the value and prestige of businesses to potential clients.
This era also witnessed improved insulation techniques that prolonged the life of neon tubes, making them more durable and suitable for diverse environments. The combination of refined craftsmanship, varied colour options, and enhanced durability significantly contributed to the artistic and commercial viability of neon signs during this period.
The decline of neon signs
The 1950s and even more so the 1960s marked a turning point for neon signs as new types of signage entered the market. These alternatives offered lower energy consumption and longer lifespans, posing a challenge to traditional neon signs.
The emergence of these new technologies, such as LEDs (Light-Emitting Diodes; first commercial application 1962) and LCDs (Liquid Crystal Displays; first functional product developed in 1968), marked a pivotal shift in the signage landscape.
In the 1960s neon signs and their traditional use for diners or nightclubs started to feel a bit old-fashioned, as new signage technologies emerged. Photo credit (right): Nick Fewings/Unsplash
LEDs, known for their energy efficiency, durability, and versatility, began to replace traditional neon signs due to their lower power consumption and longer lifespan. LCDs, on the other hand, brought digital displays to the forefront, allowing for dynamic content changes and interactive features.
These innovations not only provided businesses with cost-effective advertising solutions but also introduced a new dimension of visual possibilities, contributing to the decline of traditional neon signage in the mid-20th century.
Probably the most famous of all 1950s neon signs: "Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada", installed in 1959.
Additionally, disruptions in production caused by World War II further impacted the industry.
World War II had a significant and long-term impact on the production of neon signs, causing a substantial disruption in the industry. As resources were redirected towards the war effort, materials like glass and various gases essential for neon sign manufacturing became scarce. The focus on wartime priorities led to a decline in consumer spending and economic uncertainty, which in turn reduced the demand for advertising and neon signage.
With limited supplies and a shifting economic landscape, many neon sign companies struggled to maintain their operations. Consequently, the once-thriving neon sign industry everywhere experienced a temporary setback during this period, as the nations' attention was redirected towards the exigencies of the war.
1970s neon signs fit in perfectly with the glitz and glam of the disco era – and shared a similar fate in regards to public popularity for a while. Photo credit: Hey Emmby/Unsplash
As the mid-20th century progressed, neon sign companies faced declining demand. Yet, despite the challenges, some businesses persisted and continued to create neon signs, preserving the art form for future generations.
1980s neon signs had to compete with bright colours and maximalism in all areas of life, such as the iconic furniture and interior design elements of the Memphis Milano movement, started by the Memphis Group in 1981. Photo credit: Zanone/CC BY-SA 3.0
The resurgence of neon signs
In recent years, a nostalgic yearning for the past has brought about the resurgence of interest in vintage neon signs. People have rediscovered the charm of these classic displays, recognizing their historical significance and unique allure.
Enthusiasts and collectors have actively sought out and restored these iconic signs, recognizing them as authentic relics of a bygone era. Notable examples include the historic "Coca-Cola" signs that evoke the golden age of advertising or the renowned "Moulin Rouge" sign in Las Vegas, which stands as a testament to the city's neon lights history.
The original neon sign of the Moulin Rouge Hotel is currently on display at the Neon Museum in Las Vegas. Photo credit: BAPK /CC BY-SA 4.0
The interest extends to art installations like Chris Bracey's "God's Own Junkyard," where vintage neon signs are reimagined to create vibrant and immersive experiences. This resurgence of interest underscores the enduring charm and cultural significance of these luminous relics, bridging the past with the present in a captivating fusion of history and design.
Moreover, neon signs have found a new life in contemporary art and design. Artists incorporate neon elements into their work, creating captivating installations and sculptures that bridge the gap between traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, thus paying homage to more than a century of neon history.
Even today, neon signs retain their relevance in modern advertising. Businesses recognize the power of these luminous displays to capture attention and create lasting impressions on potential customers.
While LED technology has become a popular alternative, neon signs maintain a niche market with businesses seeking a distinctive and classic aesthetic for their branding. The allure of neon colours and the warm glow of the tubes remain unmatched, making them a timeless choice for advertising in a world dominated by digital media.
Despite the rise of digital advertising and cutting-edge technologies, neon signs have stood the test of time. Their ability to capture attention, evoke emotions, and create a sense of place makes them an evergreen choice for businesses seeking to make a lasting impression.
Conclusion
The rise and evolution of neon signs offer a captivating journey through the history of advertising, art, and technology. From their humble beginnings to their enduring relevance, neon signs have proven to be more than just luminous displays – they are powerful instruments that communicate brand messaging and captivate audiences. As a business, considering the utilisation of neon signs can be a strategic move in creating a strong brand presence, enhancing customer engagement, and leaving a lasting impression in the minds of potential clients.
From their early discovery and the pioneering work of Georges Claude to their decline and subsequent resurgence, neon signs have left an indelible mark on the landscape of advertising and visual culture. As we continue to embrace new technologies, let us not forget the lasting impact of these luminous marvels that have brightened our lives for over a century.
