Strange days: Performer returns with pop-up museum of oddities

For those interested in the strange and unusual, George McArthur has once again delivered a unique experience that promises to captivate and intrigue. This time, he brings his beloved "George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders" to the heart of Bakersfield, California. This pop-up museum is a treasure trove of haunted objects, two-headed animals, chupacabras, and even a giant sword swallower. As we delve into the fascinating world of George the Giant, we discover a performer who has been collecting his museum-worthy oddities for nearly thirty years.

A Legend in the Making

George McArthur, affectionately known as George the Giant, stands at an impressive seven feet three inches tall. His career in the entertainment industry began in 1991 with professional performances that showcased his unique skills. These acts include sword swallowing, lying on a bed of nails, and other death-defying stunts that have left audiences in awe. McArthur's involvement in sideshows and television has made him a household name, especially among those who appreciate the bizarre and the unknown.

A Connection to the Past

McArthur learned his unusual skills from one of the last remaining sideshow legends, Bobby Reynolds. Reynolds started his career in the 1940s and was known for his Fiji mermaids and an alligator boy. These exhibits are part of the rich history that McArthur brings to his museum, blending the old with the new to create a truly unique experience.

The Pop-Up Museum

The "George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders" is not just a collection of oddities; it's an immersive experience designed to delight and unsettle visitors. The museum features a haunted ventriloquist dummy that was recently acquired by McArthur from a friend. The dummy is said to have been left in places it wasn't supposed to be, and its original owners claimed to have heard tiny footsteps. This adds to the eerie atmosphere, making it feel like something straight out of "The Twilight Zone" or "The Conjuring."

The museum also includes old-time sideshow attractions such as the 200-Pound Man Eating Chicken and a giant Ash Wood Bat from Kentucky. These items are not just curiosities but part of a larger narrative that McArthur weaves through his collection. He believes that everything in the museum is 100% real, with some items being "real-real" and others being "real-fake." However, it's all real entertaining, as he puts it, quoting Ward Hall, a legendary showman who started in the '40s.

Behind the Scenes

To create this pop-up museum, McArthur has been collecting treasures far and wide for over twenty-five years. He has amassed a vast array of specimens, including framed chupacabras and two-headed ducks. The museum is not just about displaying oddities; it's about sharing stories behind each item. McArthur guides visitors through his collection every hour, sharing bizarre tales that add to the mystique of each exhibit.

"I have a portrait of an old man that used to hang in my house when I was a kid," McArthur explains. "Then we have the swamp bugger, which is basically this weird creature that if you stare at him the right way, you'll realize he's something else." This blending of real and fake creates an intriguing dynamic that keeps visitors engaged.

A Labor of Love

For McArthur, the "George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders" is a labor of love. He has dreamed of bringing this project to life for years, and the pop-up shop business model allows him to test the waters and explore longer-term options. The museum's success has already garnered attention from music festival promoters who are considering adding it to their events. McArthur hopes to take the show on the road, keeping the sideshow alive for future generations.

A Ticket to Adventure

Visitors can experience this unique attraction for just $5 per ticket. The museum is open for a limited period, with specific dates and times to ensure that each visitor has a memorable experience. For those interested in the strange and unusual, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

The Future of Sideshow

George the Giant's commitment to preserving the tradition of sideshows is evident in his work. He believes in keeping the spirit of these old-time attractions alive, even as modern entertainment trends evolve. By sharing his collection with the public, he hopes to inspire a new generation of performers and collectors who appreciate the art form.

Conclusion

In a world where novelty and entertainment often come in predictable packages, George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders stands out as a beacon of uniqueness. It's not just a museum; it's an experience that will leave you questioning what's real and what's not. With its blend of haunted objects, bizarre creatures, and death-defying stunts, this pop-up museum is sure to captivate anyone with a taste for the extraordinary.

For those who dare to venture into the uncharted territories of the unknown, George McArthur's museum is the perfect destination. Whether you're a seasoned collector of oddities or simply someone who appreciates the bizarre, this museum is an adventure you won't want to miss.

References

• George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders
• George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders 2018
• Dive deeper this Halloween: George the Giant unveils a unique pop-up museum experience
• Strange days: Performer returns with pop-up museum of oddities
• George the Giant's Strange Museum of Oddities and Wonders Will Feature Haunted Objects, Two-Headed Animals, and More