M*A*S*H Signpost

M*A*S*H Signpost

Description
Pointing the way to anyplace but here, this prop from M*A*S*H (CBS, 1972-83) reflects the characters' humorous efforts to cope with the horrors of war.
The show, set in an army field hospital during the Korean War, debuted in the final years of the Vietnam War, and its antiwar theme resonated with many Americans. Its talented ensemble cast and compelling storylines earned M*A*S*H lasting popularity. The final program, broadcast on February 28, 1983, was the most-watched series episode in television history.
This sign post is one of three used in the production of the show, likely a replica made for the final season of the show after the original was destroyed in a 1982 fire at Malibu Creek State Park, the outdoor filming location used throughout the series' production. Twentieth Century Fox donated the sign post to the museum in 1983.
Date made
1970-1972
Associated Date
1970s
Physical Description
wood (overall material)
wood; steel; paint (overall material)
metal (base material)
Measurements
overall: 97 in x 35 in x 35 in; 246.38 cm x 88.9 cm x 88.9 cm
overall: 97 in x 35 in x 25 in; 246.38 cm x 88.9 cm x 63.5 cm
ID Number
1983.0095.237
accession number
1983.0095
catalog number
1983.0095.237
Credit Line
Gift of Twentieth Century-Fox (through Robert B. Morin)
subject
M*A*S*H
Television
Television
related event
Korean War
See more items in
Cultural and Community Life: Entertainment
Popular Entertainment
Military
Data Source
National Museum of American History

Comments

reply
This object is a replica donated to the museum by M*A*S*H producers after the show went off the air. The only remaining screen used signpost was taken home by set decorator Bert Allen (the other was destroyed during a fire that ravaged outdoor shooting location in 1982 while the finale was in production). That screen used signpost later resurfaced in a Hollywood "Profiles In History" auction and sold for $25,000. The signpost pictured here, is somewhat inaccurate, as Boston, Seoul and Coney Island are incorrectly shaped. Toledo should be a dark sign with white lettering. Most merchandise, as well as the donated replica at Malibu Creek State Park (the outdoor shooting location), are unfortunately modeled after Smithsonian signpost, instead of the on air prop configurations.

Larry Lee Moniz

Thu, 2019-05-23 08:26

reply
Is this still on display today?

Phoebe

Fri, 2015-05-15 11:40

reply
"As of now (May 2015), this item is not on display."

National Museum of American History

Mon, 2015-05-18 08:52

reply
I would love to see the MASH set brought back.

Greg

Wed, 2012-11-14 13:25

reply
"During 2007, the sign post is on display in the "Treasures of American History " exhibition on view at the National Air & Space Museum."

National Museum of American History

Tue, 2013-07-16 15:34

Add a comment about this object