Turfway Lightbulb & Neon Sign

Debuted in 1986, this Turfway Park sign of Florence, Kentucky, features neon letters and a border of flashing lightbulbs, also sometimes referred to as ‘chasers’, all on a porcelain cabinet. This combination of technologies demonstrates the versatility and creativity of the sign-making industry.

The Turfway Park sign is one of only a few examples of exposed illumination in the American Sign Museum’s Sign Garden. Lightbulbs have long helped sign makers to create visual effects and eye-catching designs since they became commercially available in the late 1800s. Over time though, sign designers and businesses learned how susceptible lightbulbs were to damage when exposed to outdoor elements. In the latter half of the 20th century, sign makers began to enclose lightbulbs within cabinets more frequently.

05/06/2022: power work at cost of $80

03/01/2023-5/02/2023: retrofit light bars by the Sign Guys (sign grid capital expense)