Glowing grad

Stepping into the American Sign Museum in Cincinnati can feel overwhelming. Around 800 signs, spanning more than a century of American advertising, shine, twinkle and click throughout the largest public sign museum in the country.

For Erin Holland, a 2010 Wright State University graduate, those neon signs are a great teaching tool.

“I really like to show guests some of the signs they really know,” said Holland, the director of education and engagement at the American Sign Museum.

A Dayton native, Holland said her favorite sign on display is the Vic Cassano Pizza King sign.

Holland studied film theory and criticism at Wright State, an experience that helped her develop her critical thinking and communication skills. Since joining the museum five years ago, she has been responsible for finding ways to appeal the museum to a broad audience.

Those efforts are paying off. Last year marked one of the museum’s best in attendance, with more than 80,000 visitors. The museum was also recently featured in a live broadcast of the “CBS Evening News.”

“We do get some national attention sometimes,” Holland said. “When the NFL is in-town they ask to come get some b-roll.”

While some assume the museum primarily appeals to adults, Holland said the museum is very nostalgic for visitors of all ages. She said the museum offers teaching opportunities for children who often question the lower prices on older signs.

“When you look at that McDonald’s sign the kids see that flashing 15 cents and they have questions because they know it costs more than that,” she said.

The American Sign Museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guided tours offered on weekends at select times.

Vic Cassano Pizza King sign on display at the American Sign Museum.