The Museum of Death in Hollywood, California, is a unique and thought-provoking institution that delves into the darker aspects of human existence. Founded in 1995 by J.D. Healy and Catherine Shultz, this museum has been captivating and shocking visitors with its extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and exhibits related to death and the macabre.Located at 6363 Selma Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028, the museum is open seven days a week from 11 am to 8 pm, with a $20 admission fee. The Hollywood location is the second Museum of Death, with the first opening in San Diego in 1995.
Notable Exhibits and Collections
The Museum of Death boasts an impressive array of exhibits and collections that explore various aspects of death and the darker side of human nature. Some of the notable items on display include:
- Body bags, coffins, and a skull collection
- The Theatre of Death
- Antique mortician apparatuses
- Manson Family photos
- Crime scene and morgue photos
- Artworks and letters from infamous serial murderers
- Graphic car accident photos
- Cannibalism exhibits
The museum also features videos of autopsies, serial killers, the Heaven’s Gate Cult recruiting video, and the infamous “Traces (not Faces) of Death” video, all of which feature real (not re-enacted) death footage.
Mixed Reviews and Controversies
The Museum of Death has received mixed reviews from visitors, with some finding it fascinating and others feeling it is more focused on shock value than educational content. Reviewers recommend coming prepared to read and explore the history behind the exhibits, as the museum can be overwhelming for those not accustomed to such morbid subject matter.The museum has also faced its fair share of controversies over the years. In 2015, a former employee sued the museum for wrongful termination, alleging that she was fired for refusing to participate in a “death-themed” wedding photo shoot.
The Allure of the Macabre
Despite the controversies and mixed reviews, the Museum of Death continues to draw visitors from around the world who are fascinated by the darker aspects of human nature. The museum’s founders believe that by confronting death and the macabre, visitors can gain a greater appreciation for life and the fragility of existence.As J.D. Healy, one of the museum’s founders, stated, “We’re not here to make people happy. We’re here to make people happy to be alive.” The museum’s mission is to educate and enlighten visitors about the universal experience of death, while also exploring the more disturbing and taboo aspects of human behavior.
A Unique and Thought-Provoking Experience
Whether you find the Museum of Death fascinating or disturbing, there’s no denying that it offers a unique and thought-provoking experience. The museum’s extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits provides a window into the darker corners of human history and psychology, challenging visitors to confront their own mortality and the darker aspects of the human condition.As one reviewer noted, “This museum is perfect if you’re a fan of real life crime such as Black Dahlia, Charles Manson, John Wayne Gacy, etc.” For those with a strong stomach and a morbid curiosity, the Museum of Death is a must-visit destination in Hollywood.
Conclusion
The Museum of Death in Hollywood is a controversial and thought-provoking institution that challenges visitors to confront the darker aspects of human existence. With its extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and exhibits related to death and the macabre, the museum offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those brave enough to venture inside.While the museum has faced its fair share of controversies and mixed reviews, it continues to draw visitors from around the world who are fascinated by the allure of the macabre. Whether you find it fascinating or disturbing, the Museum of Death is a testament to the enduring human fascination with death and the darker aspects of the human condition.
FAQs
- What is the Museum of Death?
The Museum of Death is a unique museum located in Hollywood, California that displays a wide variety of art and artifacts surrounding the subject of death. - When was the Museum of Death founded?
The Museum of Death was established in June 1995 by J. D. Healy and Catherine Shultz. - What are some of the notable exhibits at the Museum of Death?
Notable exhibits include body bags, coffins, skull collections, antique mortician apparatuses, Manson Family photos, crime scene and morgue photos, artworks and letters from infamous serial murderers, graphic car accident photos, and cannibalism exhibits. - How long does it take to tour the Museum of Death?
The self-guided tour of the Museum of Death typically lasts approximately 45 minutes to an hour, but visitors who can stomach it often stay as long as they like. - Is the Museum of Death controversial?
Yes, the Museum of Death has faced its fair share of controversies over the years, including a lawsuit from a former employee alleging wrongful termination and criticism from some visitors who feel the museum is more focused on shock value than educational content.