CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — A collection that's taken 30 plus years to assemble is now on display for the public just over the rainbow. In this week's Florida on a Tankful, we head to Cape Canaveral to explore a museum and private collection dedicated to the classic movie "The Wizard of Oz."
Each time Fred Trust unlocks one of the many illuminated cabinets inside his museum, he's checking in on what you could call his prized possessions.
“This is the first book that was published by Frank Baum," he explained showing us an original from his collection.
The books inside this collector's cabinets are originals he's collected over the past 30 years. The books are all by author Frank Baum, the man who created the fantastical world of the "Wizard of Oz."
Fred first read the classic novels as a child growing up in the former Soviet Union and developed a love for them, later in life starting his collection and finding a love later a love for the classic film as well.
His private collection expanded over the years from not just the books but to all things memorabilia when it comes to the "Wizard of Oz."
He just recently transformed this private collection into one that can be enjoyed by all, opening up the Wizard of Oz Museum in Cape Canaveral.
An experience meant to take all who visit down memory lane and quite literally down the yellow brick road into the land of Oz. He has also created an immerseive experience within the museum where you can feel like you're standing in classic scenes from the books and movies.
Fred created not just a tangible memorabilia-filled museum, but one that will fully immerse you in magic of the Emerald City.
In addition to the immersive "Wizard of Oz" scenes, they also have a fully immersive Van Gogh experience. The Wizard of Oz museum is open seven days week and their hours vary so be sure to call ahead or head to their website.