We came across an interesting article on Long Beach’s “Marsh’s Free Museum” today.
Marsh’s Free Museum features oddities such as shrunken heads and Jake the Alligator Man, along with antique musical instruments, mounted animal heads, the world’s largest collection of seashells, as well as many other attractions.
Jake the alligator is the most notable attraction at Marsh’s Free museum. Jake is known to the world as a half alligator, and half man, housing his own place at Marsh’s Free Museum, known as Jake’s Place. Along with Jake’s Place, you may also find the 7 Seas, a collection of unusual sea creatures [sic], and the world’s largest collection of seashells, the beat goes on, which consists of antique and unique musical instruments. And, along with other oddities, you can have your fortune read, play baseball, and view a 1940′s style peep show.
The article continues:
Marsh’s Free Museum was originally known as Marsh’s Seashell Factory and Antiques from 1937 to 1952. Founder W.W. Marsh standing in front. It wasn’t until 1972 that the museum moved from it’s original place to Long Beach, Washington, it’s present location. Since 1972, the museum has grown to become the most popular tourist trap in the Pacific Northwest, and a favorite location to purchase odd and unique antiques.
Read the whole article here, including some pretty nice photos and a great video.
About the video… The motel shown, formerly known as The Boulevard, is in terrible shape. It was purchased several years ago by an out-of-town owner, presumably for its property value rather than its current structures. The City of Long Beach has been working with the owner to demolish the now-condemned structures as an instructional burn with our local Fire Department.
Come to Jake the Alligator Man’s 3rd Annual 75th Birthday Bash!
