Fix It Or Take It Down

Apparently, back in the day, Martinsville, IN was quite the place. Once a destination for a artesian mineral springs, the only remnant of that era is an old neon sign: “Martinsville City of Mineral Water”.

(photo courtesy of www.waymarking.com)

The sign sits atop one of the buildings on the town square. But the sign no longer works and does not light up. A few years ago, it was repaired–briefly.

I recently attended a Martinsville revitalization meeting. I was in a group discussing signage. I brought up the mineral water sign and said to take it down. A couple of people gasped and were shocked at such a comment. This sign defines downtown Martinsville. This sign has historic significance. This sign reminds us of an era when Martinsville was the place to be.

But in my opinion, this sign reminds us of the current Martinsville–broken and waiting to be fixed. I told the shocked people that one of two things should happen: fix the sign or take it down. A broken sign only adds to the negative image of the current downtown. So many buildings are in disrepair. So many vacant offices and buildings. I’m sure my comments reduced my popularity, but I’m okay with this.

It’s time for Martinsville and other struggling communities to finally wake up. It’s time to realize the era that once was is long gone. In many cases, there are 3 or more generations who do not remember the time when these towns were great. Your memories of the heyday are not sufficient to remind the generations of people who weren’t yet born.

UPDATE: I received an email comment from a friend:

The sign looks great as-is!  I think it adds character in a world where everything is built to look the same.  If you remove it that corner could be anywhere in the US.  With the sign there as it is, it is uniquely Martinsville.

He’s right. The sign definitely adds character. The point that I’m trying to make is that this sign should be fixed so that it lights up the Martinsville downtown area at night too.

(Note: I know I’m being extremely critical. And I’m willing to do something about it. Read this to learn more.)