As we continue our deep-dive into Route 66’s history and culture during this, the Mother Road’s centennial anniversary, one book examines one of the most illuminating features of roadside attractions -- the neon sign.

Len Davidson’s 192-page tome “Vintage Neon” is a love letter to the signage that, in mid-20^th century America, turned our roadsides into a “luminous wonderland” – and, as someone who began restoring neons in the 1970s, Davidson has navigated that wonderland throughout his illustrious career. These signs aren’t just creations; they’re friends met along the way on a grand adventure; according to a description on the publisher’s website, “The most compelling signs were figural: imaginative, cartoon drawings in light. These unforgettable depictions of exploding bowling pins, crashing cars, baton-twirling majorettes, and lassoing cowboys were the fodder for legend and lore.”

You’ll find the work of both renowned photographers and amateur shutterbugs in this book, offering a colorful, dazzling array of more than 360 vintage neon signs. Architects, artists, and anyone who has been mesmerized by the humming allure of such signs will delight in Davidson’s book. Notes and observations from each photographer offer a glimpse into their own love of these glowing monuments that beckon the traveler to pull over and appreciate another slice of Americana that seems to continue its gradual disappearance with each passing year.

Author’s note: Although this book is listed as being sold out on the publisher’s website, it may still be purchased online at Amazon and eBay or multiple independent booksellers, such as Alibris, AbeBooks, and the Chamblin Bookmine, among others. 

About the author

Len Davidson began collecting and restoring vintage neon signs in the mid-1970s, which led him to establish Davidson Neon Design, a custom sign business. In 1985, he founded the Neon Museum of Philadelphia to showcase his vast collection (the museum closed in 2022). Currently, Davidson lives with his wife, Judy and son Cory in a house full of historic signs.

About the publisher

A family-owned, independent publisher of high-quality nonfiction books since 1974, Schiffer has published thousands of titles on the diverse subjects that fuel our readers’ passion. From our traditional subjects of antiques and collectibles, arts and crafts and military history, Schiffer has expanded its catalog to publish books on contemporary art and artists; architecture and design; food and entertaining; the metaphysical, paranormal and folklore; and pop and fringe culture, as well as books for children.

Schiffer Publishing is located in Atglen, PA. Website: www.schifferbooks.com.

Size: 9” x 12”, 362 color photographs, 192 pages, ISBN: 9780764308574, binding: hardback, price: $59.99

Contact Corbin Crable at editor@discovervintage.com.