Q: How did you
get started collecting traffic signals?
A: Check out
my bio page for information on this question.
Q: I would
like to start a traffic signal collection too! How can I
start?
A: Starting a
traffic signal collection is not as easy as it may sound.
Many patient years of searching and "being in the right
place at the right time" is required. Some cities
auction off the
old equipment at a city auction, but usually
contractors and scrap dealers are the ones that are invited.
Many times the public just can't buy a signal off of the
street. I do have a couple of sources on my links page for
surplus traffic signals. It is probably the easiest way to
obtain one! Another idea
is to purchase one from
several sources listed in
my
Web ring or on my
links page under the heading "Traffic Signals and Signs Available to the
Public".
Q: What is
your most favorite signal that you have in your collection?
A: I like them
all, of course! But if I had to choose a favorite, it would
probably be my Wiley signal from San Francisco.
I really enjoy seeing the electric lights and mechanical banners move as
they sequence from STOP to GO. The signal also makes me nostalgic for the simpler era
of traffic control. A close second would be my Crouse-Hinds fixed face
command lens signal, followed by the other 4-ways in the collection.
Another favorite is my Econolite 8" two way pole
mounted signal with bent-tube neon pedestrian signals. These represent
signals I remember well during my childhood.
Q: How do you mount your
traffic signals?
A: Most
traffic signals after 1950
use 1-1/2" pipe fittings
to mount to the top and
bottom of each signal. The
pipe, pipe nuts, nipples,
and flanges can be found
at any hardware store. The
only work required is
painting the difficult
galvanized pipe.
Q. How can I find out more
about traffic signals and
how they operate?
A: Go to
Trafficsignals.net, or
check out some of the
other resources listed in
my
links page. You can also find more answers to signal questions in the
FAQ's there.
Q. Where is the Museum of Traffic
Control located?
A: The museum is located in Pella, Iowa about 42 miles SE of
Des Moines.
Q. How can I visit the museum?
A: The best way to contact me is via
e-mail. The museum is
open most evenings and weekends by appointment only.
