Currently, Swormstedt is seeking the same tax-exempt status shared by many cultural centers. The site features archived images, news, information and the stories behind the signs. The site is a helpful resource, especially for retailers looking to create period looks. Swormstedt had personal reasons for starting the museum. For one thing, he says, the site can always be a window to artifacts that will not, or should not travel.
Signs are bulky, tricky to ship and ideally, better left in their original environments.
Also, it's expensive and in some cases impossible to convince private collectors to part with their signs. But the same individuals, Swormstedt says, are more likely to share their treasures with the world if the threat of damage and theft are removed, hence the Internet advantages. In addition to sign displays, online visitors can continuously see new acquisitions and stay abreast of news and events. Apart from design, it's a resource for several kinds of product sourcing, including materials and technique. Sponsored Links Design Compendium - Designer and Manufacturer of custom made decoratives and displays.