Soon after the museum’s grand opening in 2005, founder Tod Swormstedt began looking for a permanent home that could accommodate the Museum’s collection – which was already outgrowing its rented space – and his vision for a more interactive experience. His search ended at a former women’s clothing and later parachute factory in Camp Washington, a historic and ready-to-bloom-again area of Cincinnati.

The building needed a complete overhaul to meet city codes and museum requirements. With the help of our supporters, we completed the first two phases of construction. View early construction highlights of our new home.

Then came the recession.

Now, thanks to a very generous anonymous donation, we are back at work, and – with your help – we will be ready to open our doors in Spring, 2012.


Highlights of the new building Include:

• 19,000+ square feet of exhibit space – more than 450% larger than our existing space at Essex Studios
• 28-foot ceilings, able to accommodate our large signs, like Howard Johnson and Speedee MacDonald
• A working neon shop, Neonworks, the museum’s tenant and main sign restorer
• Event space for up to 800 people
• An expanded Main Street that will showcase both signs and the tools and materials that were used to make them.
• Archives of books, photos, and documents reflecting the art, craft, and history of signmaking.

Restoration of the building is complete and we have our certificate of occupancy. Now the real fun has begun as we work on building the exhibits and infrastructure, restoring signs-in-waiting, and organizing the BIG move from our current location, now closed in preparation for the move.

When we will open the doors of our new home depends entirely on how quickly we can raise the remaining $200,000 needed to complete the museum, and actually get the work done. We’re aiming for Spring, 2012. You can help get us get there, and become a part of the museum as well:

• Purchase a paver of paint a panel - Make your mark (literally) with your personal message that will be a part of the museum forever. Inscribed pavers will line the walkway to the entrance, and donor-created panels will decorate the lobby wall.
• Adopt a Sign - Help us bring signs back to life by contributing to restoring a sign. Your generosity will be noted alongside YOUR sign in the museum.
• Become a Member - Your membership helps us keep the lights on and offers benefits to you as well.