I remember as a kid in the 80s and 90s, I really thought I was the only person on the planet who liked traffic signs, signals, cones, etc. and felt like an outcast. One of my earliest childhood memories was my dad lifting me up so I could touch a real stop sign for the first time (my mom even caught a photo of that). My most memorable Christmas was in 1996 when my dad moved a big box over in front of me (after I thought we were done opening presents) that was hidden behind the tree and I was delighted to open it and find a real Marbelite traffic signal inside! Apparently he had seen some contractors taking them down on his way home from work a couple weeks prior and explained that he had a son who loved them and they sold it to him for $20. It was my favorite Christmas gift I ever got! But it wasn’t until I came across Signal Fan’s website in the early 2000s when I learned that I was not the only one out there who was fascinated with signs and signals. Now, I am in a group on Facebook and learned there are many more of us out there. So I hope Cash will have a better opportunity to know early on through the internet and your videos that there are many others out there who see these items as modern works of art and that he will not feel near as alone as I did growing up.
Thanks for your reply! Some similarities to me as well - I used to jump up and touch signs if I could reach them. There was something so inaccessible about them at the time, until I learned how to purchase or acquire discarded signs. Love the story about the Marbelite - you will never forget that Christmas! I was also part of Signal Fan's group, and it was the first time I saw so many signals in one person's backyard; plus all of the California signs he had! My first project to share my collection online was my own site called mycrazyhobby.com, which has since evolved to social channels (and the new signpicker name). I'm also a part of the FB groups, but I am a member under my real name. You are right - there are so many other videos and groups to explore out there! (BTW, I found it fulfilling to have a hobby that nobody else really had, which allowed me to create my own unique identity.)
