Want to see a REAL Jim Henson puppet? Here’s how!
Over the last several years, Jim Henson’s family has donated hundreds of puppets, props, and objects related to his prolific career to museums across the country so fans can now see their favorite characters up close! Many are permanent exhibits, while others will travel the states for fans of all ages to experience!
The Center for Puppetry Arts
The Center for Puppetry Arts (CPA) houses the largest collection of Henson puppets and props at their museum in Atlanta, Georgia. While the Center opened its doors in 1978 — with a ribbon cutting featuring Kermit and Jim Henson — the museum has only recently unveiled their large collection of Henson artifacts. If you’re in Atlanta this summer, stop by the CPA for an interactive peek into Jim’s career with goblins, gelfings, Fraggles, Muppets and so much more! For additional museum info, visit www.puppet.org.
Museum of Moving Image & Museum of Pop Culture
Opening July 22nd, add The Jim Henson Exhibition at the Museum of Moving Image (MoMI) to your travel list! Based in New York City, MoMI’s exhibit will showcase a variety of items from Henson’s classic work (The Muppet Show, Dark Crystal, Fraggle Rock) as well as objects from his experimental projects. Purchase your tickets for the MoMI exhibit today! In addition to the permanent exhibit, a traveling display, The Jim Henson Exhibit: Imagination Unlimited, can be seen at the Museum of Pop Culture in Seattle, Washington.
The Birthplace of the Frog
Travel to Leland, Mississippi to see the birthplace of Kermit the Frog! A gift from Jane Henson and The Jim Henson Legacy, The Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood exhibit celebrates Jim and Kermit’s beginnings with educational displays, puppets, and much more. For more information about the exhibit, visit www.birthplaceofthefrog.org.
National Museum of American History
The Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History also showcases a few of our Henson friends. Home to the original Kermit the Frog from 1955, the museum features puppets within the “American Stories” exhibit. The case frequently rotates between a handful of puppets donated by the Henson family. If you stop by this summer, you’ll see Ernie, Bert, and Rubber Ducky until November!
Greenwich Historical Society
Between now and October 8th, you can stop by the Greenwich Historical Society and see Jim and Jane Henson: Creative Work, Creative Play. From photographs to puppets, this display details the Hensons’ work while living in Greenwich, CT from 1964 to 1971. Read more about the exhibit in a recent Hub post: Creative Work, Creative Play, by Holly Myer and Karen Falk!
The Strong | National Museum of Play
The Strong National Museum of Play features several Henson character toys and books, as well as a ton of other hands-on exhibits for families! Stop by the “Can You Tell Me How to Get to Sesame Street” exhibit for a photo on the iconic 123 Sesame Street stoop on your way to the Toy Halls of Fame to see displays on Jim Henson and puppets featured. For more info, visit www.museumofplay.org!