Theodor Geisel lived from 1904 to 1991 and created what is easily considered the best known children books series to date: the renowned Dr. Seuss books. Now, the first ever Dr. Seuss museum, The Amazing World of Dr. Suess, is coming to his hometown in Springfield, Massachusetts, as part of the Springfield Quadrangle. The first floor is slated to open in June 2016.
The president of Springfield Museums, Holly Smith-Bové is very excited about this project and has expressed great joy knowing that the famous writer will be remembered in such a fitting way. Various murals and artwork pieces will be exhibited at this new museum. One of the most memorable pieces, a mural of Geisel’s first illustration from his first book, will be shown in the entrance of the exhibition. The illustration is from his book “And To Think That I Saw It On Mulberry Street,” and actually depicts real-life streets in Springfield.
As part of the museum’s many projects, there will also be a multi-dimensional interactive exhibit that will allow children to explore and enjoy some of Geisel’s best work. The purpose of the exhibit is also to help promote children’s literacy and to encourage their love of reading and of learning.
Future plans for this marvelous museum is to add on a second floor, which will house additional exhibits, including a showcase of Geisel’ studio and the making of the Dr. Seuss Memorial Sculpture Garden. It will open to the public in 2017 based on current projections.
With over $3 million dollars raised, as well as a $1 million grant from the state of Massachusetts, there has been a great outpouring of support for the creation and building process of the museum. In addition, there is also a campaign in place to help raise the rest of the capital needed to fund all of the remaining exhibits and work that still needs to be done.
The museum will perpetuate Geisel’s legacy and some of his immensely famous works, including classics like “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish,” and the best-seller “The Cat in the Hat.” These are titles that continue to inspire a love of reading and learning in young children today. The museum ultimately hopes to highlight Geisel’s passion for children through the exhibition – from the murals to the activities, to all of the exhibits, and right down to the very last thingamajig.
