Last week the Smithsonian Institution launched a successful funding campaign for the preservation and display of the ruby slippers. The $300,000 goal was met in 6 days. But the work to conserve the legacy of Oz isn't finished yet. A stretch fund has been added so the Scarecrow costume can be displayed alongside Dorothy's shoes. The Scarecrow costume was bequeathed to the Smithsonian by Ray Bolger's widow Gwendolyn per his final wishes after his passing in 1987.
Please donate what you can so many future generations can enjoy the spirit of Oz. Every dollar helps. There are still ruby slipper donor awards available and there are now interactive experiences with Judy Garland/Wizard of Oz historian John Fricke.
The ultimate goal is to have both the ruby slippers and Scarecrow costume ready for display in 2018 when the Smithsonian will debut a new exhibition 'On With the Show' in 2018. The Smithsonian will also be celebrating the 79th anniversary of The Wizard of Oz.
Please see the links to learn more about the research and conservation.
Links to my previous blog entries on the history of the Ruby Slippers at the Smithsonian.
Other Oz artifacts housed at the Smithsonian
So precious few artifacts are left from the filming of The Wizard of Oz. The importance of preserving every single one can not be stressed enough. Monumental, HUGE, thanks to the donors!!! The comments on the fundraising page are touching and amazing. It's wonderful to see such enthusiasm from outside the Oz community. The love for Oz knows no bounds. Nor does my gratitude for your generosity and support. Truly. THANK YOU.
And THANK YOU to the Smithsonian Institution for being such a friend to Oz and insuring the rainbow never fades.
