There has been quite an increase in the number of open air museums in the United States and across the globe in recent years. It seems that it has been only in the last fifty years or so that we realized the importance of keeping alive some of our historical heritage. They generally depict buildings that were moved or rebuilt throughout the ages.

The first open air museum was established in 1881 in Norway. It was never completed because the King lost interest after the expenses became too great. However, the idea caught on and spread across the globe. Generally speaking these older open air museums did not have outdoor message boards to direct or inform visitors.

As the medium became more and more popular, especially in Scandinavian countries an the United States, outdoor display boards became an integral part of the experience. They were able to focus attention to certain aspects of the exhibits, inform guests and visitors of important historical information, and they were able to function as tour guides.

Thirty eight states have open air museums, this does not include things like living museums or renaissance fairs. Permanent open air museums are cropping up in every corner of the globe.