Neon

//The streets are illuminated with a palette of ruby reds, sapphire blues, // //and emerald greens that broadcast promises of adventure, discovery, and gratification. //

Neon signs are luminous tube signs containing neon or other inert gases at low pressure. These gases undergo high electric pressure (usually a few thousand volts), which is why they glow brightly. The term neon is derived from the Greek word ‘neos’, which means ‘the new gas’. The invention of the neon gas and then the neon lamps is perceived as one of the most sensational discoveries in the field of lighting and electricity and it was welcomed by the people with open arms. The neon signs are created by bending glass tubes into different shapes.

In December 1910 Georges Claude, owner of Air Liquide, demonstrated modern neon lighting based on a sealed tube of neon. In 1912, Claude's associate began selling neon discharge tubes as advertising signs. They were introduced to the U.S. in the 20's by a Los Angeles Packard car dealership. The unique glow and arresting red color made neon advertising stand out from the competition.

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Glowing History then in How it works and enjoy it! || Look at this two signs:

Which one catchs you eye? That’s why people started to use neon, to make people want to enter in their motels, restaurants and etc.

New commercial opportunities for the small communities through which the route passed, and numerous “Mom & Pop” motels, restaurants, gas stations, and tourist attractions sprang to life, creating a thriving economy in these rural areas. With its introduction in the U.S., neon signs gained immense popularity, with the people being fascinated and amused with the red illumination. Soon it became a symbol of America’s inventiveness and creativity and was visible in almost all outdoor advertising.

Restoration of Neon Signs of Route 66 = = There are nine new reasons to rediscover Route 66 in New Mexico. In 2003, nine vintage Route 66 neon signs were restored to their former brilliance. From the wonderful TeePee Curio Shop sign in Tucumcari, to the wild and crazy neon Rotosphere in Moriarty, to the elegant Lexington Hotel sign in Gallup, the beauty and artistry of classic neon are once again dazzling and delighting Route 66 enthusiasts. Elmo Baca, the former New Mexico State Historic Preservation Officer, must have recalled the neon galaxy that was far-far-away in his memory and envisioned a project to rekindle appreciation of vintage neon and its importance to Route 66. In 1999, the Route 66 Corridor Preservation Act was passed by the U.S. Congress and money was designated for Route 66 preservation. The National Park Service __was encharged with administering the project__ and a Route 66 Corridor Preservation Office was established led by Michael Romero Taylor. When the first request for proposals for Route 66 preservation projects was issued, Elmo came forward with his bold idea to restore neon signs. The project was founded and after a competitive bidding process, the New Mexico Route 66 Association was selected to execute the project. Look at one sign that was restored:

