Quirky Missouri – Oddities and Roadside Attractions
Missouri, often referred to as the "Show-Me State," is more than just its major cities and historical landmarks. Beyond the well-trodden paths lie a collection of peculiar attractions and roadside oddities that offer a glimpse into the state’s unique character. These quirky destinations, ranging from colossal confectionery tributes to educational experiences unlike any other, beckon travelers to explore the unconventional side of Quirky Missouri.
Among the myriad of unconventional attractions, a few stand out as prime examples of the state’s whimsical spirit. The Quirky Missouri experience wouldn’t be complete without venturing off the beaten path to discover these hidden gems. From giant roadside icons to museums dedicated to the unusual, there’s something to pique the interest of every curious traveler. Let’s embark on a journey to uncover some of the most memorable and eccentric sights that Quirky Missouri has to offer.
The Dental Health Theatre: An Animated Approach to Oral Hygiene
Imagine a place where teeth come to life, not in a dentist’s nightmare, but in an engaging educational experience. What exactly is a Dental Health Theatre? Is it a stage for dental dramas, where molars deliver Shakespearean soliloquies and incisors engage in romantic duets? Perhaps a chorus line of baby teeth performing elaborate routines? Or even a live demonstration of dental procedures for the morbidly curious?
In reality, the Dental Health Theatre is a unique attraction dedicated to teaching children about the importance of dental hygiene in a fun and accessible way. In the realm of Quirky Missouri, this theatre stands out as the only one of its kind in the world, offering a memorable and impactful lesson in oral care.
The story of the Dental Health Theatre begins in Chicago, where a dentist commissioned a set of sixteen three-foot-tall illuminated teeth in the 1970s. Finding himself short on space, he later sold them to a dentist in St. Louis, Missouri. This marked the beginning of a unique educational project. The St. Louis dentist, with the help of local colleagues and the Dental Auxiliary, a group of dentists’ wives, brought the Dental Health Theatre to life.
The theatre cleverly combines the illuminated teeth with a marionette puppet show, originally presented by the Dental Auxiliary in local schools. To enhance the experience, they added two films, a giant toothbrush, and oversized dental floss, utilizing them for demonstrations on proper brushing and flossing techniques.
The centerpiece of the Dental Health Theatre is the set of 16 three-foot-tall fiberglass teeth, which serve as the backdrop for puppet shows tailored for groups of 15 or more. For smaller audiences, the theatre offers two films: "Dudley The Dinosaur Goes to the Dentist," designed for young children, and "The Haunted Mouth," aimed at older kids. These films complement the live performances, reinforcing the message of good dental hygiene in an entertaining format.
Today, the Dental Health Theatre is housed within the HealthWorks! Kids Museum in St. Louis, continuing its mission of educating and engaging young minds on the importance of oral health. It’s a testament to the creative ways in which educational messages can be delivered, proving that learning can be both informative and fun.
Jim the Wonder Dog: A Canine Clairvoyant
Deep in the heart of Missouri lies a tale of canine intelligence that defies explanation. Jim, a Llewellyn Setter born in 1925, wasn’t just any dog; he was believed to possess extraordinary abilities. His owner, Sam Van Arsdale, claimed Jim could understand and respond to commands in multiple languages, predict future events, and even diagnose illnesses.
Jim’s fame spread rapidly throughout the 1930s, attracting attention from scientists, journalists, and skeptics alike. He became a local celebrity in Marshall, Missouri, where he performed his feats of intelligence for audiences eager to witness his extraordinary abilities.
According to accounts, Jim could identify objects by name, select people from a crowd based on verbal descriptions, and even predict the winners of horse races. His most remarkable claim was his ability to diagnose illnesses by simply sniffing a patient and identifying the affected area. While scientific explanations for Jim’s abilities remained elusive, his story captured the imagination of the nation and solidified his place in Missouri folklore.
While not a traditional roadside attraction, Jim the Wonder Dog’s legacy continues to draw visitors to Marshall, Missouri. The town has embraced its connection to the extraordinary canine, creating a memorial park and museum dedicated to his life and legend. For those seeking the unusual and unexplained, a visit to Marshall offers a chance to delve into the story of Jim the Wonder Dog and ponder the mysteries of animal intelligence.
The Glore Psychiatric Museum: A Journey Through Mental Health History
For those with an interest in the history of mental health treatment, the Glore Psychiatric Museum in St. Joseph offers a sobering and insightful experience. Housed in the former State Lunatic Asylum No. 2, the museum showcases the evolution of mental health care, from its earliest and often barbaric practices to modern therapeutic approaches.
The museum’s exhibits feature a collection of artifacts, documents, and recreations that depict the harsh realities of life in a 19th-century asylum. Visitors can see examples of early treatment methods, including lobotomies, electroshock therapy, and hydrotherapy, as well as the restraints and devices used to control patients.
One of the museum’s most striking exhibits is a collection of objects removed from the stomach of a patient in 1929. The patient, a woman suffering from a severe mental illness, had swallowed over 1,400 metal objects, including nails, screws, buttons, and pieces of wire. The exhibit serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by mental health professionals and the profound impact of mental illness on individuals and their families.
The Glore Psychiatric Museum is not for the faint of heart, but it offers a valuable and thought-provoking look at the history of mental health care. It’s a reminder of how far we’ve come in our understanding and treatment of mental illness, and a testament to the importance of compassion and empathy in caring for those who suffer from mental health conditions.
The World’s Largest Pecan: A Nutty Homage
In the town of Brunswick, Missouri, stands a giant tribute to the state’s pecan heritage: the World’s Largest Pecan. This colossal nut, measuring 12 feet long and 6 feet wide, is a roadside attraction that draws visitors from near and far. Brunswick proudly proclaims itself the "Pecan Capital of Missouri," and the giant pecan serves as a symbol of the town’s connection to the pecan industry.
The giant pecan was built in 1982 by local businessman George James, who wanted to create a unique attraction that would draw attention to Brunswick and its pecan-growing heritage. The pecan is made of concrete and steel, and it sits on a platform in a park on the edge of town.
Visitors can stop by the park to admire the giant pecan, take photos, and learn about the history of pecan farming in Missouri. The town also hosts an annual Pecan Festival, where visitors can sample pecan-related treats, enjoy live music, and participate in various activities. For travelers seeking the offbeat and whimsical, a visit to the World’s Largest Pecan is a must-see attraction in Quirky Missouri.
These are just a few examples of the quirky attractions and roadside oddities that await discovery in Missouri. From educational theatres to giant nuts, the state offers a diverse range of unique experiences that are sure to delight and surprise. So, venture off the beaten path and explore the unconventional side of Missouri – you never know what hidden gems you might find.