Exploring Indiana's Museums: A Guide to the Hoosier State's Oddities
Welcome to Indiana, the Hoosier State! Home to cornfields, basketball, and some of the most offbeat and fascinating museums you'll find in the United States. This article aims to guide you through some of Indiana's quirkiest museums that you won't find in your typical travel guide. So, buckle up and get ready for a journey through the unconventional side of Indiana!
Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum: A Salute to the Golden Age of American Automobiles Located in the heart of Auburn, Indiana, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum is a must-visit for car enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The museum houses an impressive collection of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg automobiles, showcasing the innovative designs and engineering feats that made these cars the epitome of luxury and style during the 1920s and 1930s.
In addition to the automotive eye-candy, the museum also offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who built, bought, and drove these magnificent machines. With interactive exhibits, artifacts, and artwork on display, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum is a tribute to the golden age of American automobiles and the men and women who made it all possible.
The Indiana Medical History Museum: A Step Back in Time to the Early Days of Medical Science Situated on the grounds of the historic Central State Hospital in Indianapolis, the Indiana Medical History Museum offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore the early days of medical science. The museum's highlight is the Old Pathology Building, which is the oldest surviving pathology facility in the United States.
The building, which dates back to 1896, houses a wealth of medical history - from antique medical equipment and specimens to a fully preserved, turn-of-the-century surgical amphitheater. Visitors can also explore the Medicinal Plant Garden, which showcases plants that were once used as remedies for various ailments. While the Indiana Medical History Museum may not be for the faint of heart, it provides a fascinating look into the evolution of medical science and the dedicated professionals who have worked tirelessly to save lives and advance the field.
The RV/MH Hall of Fame: A Road Trip Down Memory Lane If you're a fan of road trips and Americana, then the RV/MH Hall of Fame in Elkhart, Indiana, is the perfect destination for you. This unique museum celebrates the history, culture, and enduring appeal of recreational vehicles and manufactured homes.
The main exhibit hall features a wide range of vintage RVs and mobile homes, from the 1920s to the present, each one meticulously restored to its original glory. The museum also boasts an extensive library and archive containing rare photographs, documents, and memorabilia related to the RV and manufactured housing industries. So, pack your bags and hit the road – the RV/MH Hall of Fame awaits!
The Mascot Hall of Fame: A Whimsical Tribute to Sports' Unsung Heroes In Whiting, Indiana, the Mascot Hall of Fame pays tribute to the unsung heroes of the sports world: mascots! This one-of-a-kind museum, housed in a brightly colored, whimsical building, celebrates the art and science of being a mascot.
Visitors can learn about the history of mascots, explore the creative process behind designing a mascot, and even try their hand at being a mascot in the interactive "Fur-Ever Fitness" exhibit. The Mascot Hall of Fame also honors the best of the best in the mascot world, with inductees including beloved characters from professional and college sports teams across the United States.
- Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum - Auburn
- Indiana Medical History Museum - Indianapolis
- RV/MH Hall of Fame - Elkhart
- Mascot Hall of Fame - Whiting
Whether you're a history buff, a sports fanatic, or just looking for a fun and unusual way to spend an afternoon, Indiana's quirky museums have something for everyone. So go ahead, indulge your curiosity, and discover the hidden gems of the Hoosier State!
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