Grand Rapids, Minnesota, the birthplace of Hollywood icon Judy Garland, is currently on a mission to reclaim a piece of history that was stolen from its local museum – the iconic ruby slippers worn by Garland in “The Wizard of Oz.” These prized footwear were stolen and later turned over to an auction company, leaving the small town to rally together to raise funds to bring them back home.
A Fundraising Effort
The annual Judy Garland festival in Grand Rapids serves as the backdrop for the fundraising effort to repurchase the ruby slippers. The town is seeking donations from the community to ensure that these valuable artifacts do not fall into the hands of private collectors. With the auction company planning to take the slippers on an international tour before putting them up for sale in December, time is of the essence for Grand Rapids to secure the funds needed to win them back.
The Priceless Value
The executive vice president of Heritage Auctions, Joe Maddalena, emphasized the priceless nature of the ruby slippers. He stated that while they could potentially sell for millions of dollars, their true value lies in their historical significance and connection to Judy Garland. Once these iconic shoes are sold, no amount of money in the world can bring them back to their rightful place in the Judy Garland Museum.
In addition to the fundraising efforts by the town, Minnesota lawmakers have already set aside $100,000 to contribute to the purchase of the slippers. This joint effort showcases the dedication of both the local community and the state government to preserve a piece of Hollywood history that is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Judy Garland.
The story of the stolen ruby slippers took a surprising turn when the FBI recovered them in 2018. The thief, Terry Jon Martin, had used a hammer to break into the museum and steal the shoes in a misguided attempt to secure one last score. After pleading guilty to theft, Martin was sentenced to time served due to health issues. Another man, Jerry Hal Saliterman, was later charged in connection with the theft, highlighting the lengths that individuals would go to possess a piece of cinematic history.
“The Wizard of Oz” remains a beloved musical from 1939, with Judy Garland’s portrayal of Dorothy captivating audiences for generations. Garland’s character danced down the Yellow Brick Road in her shiny ruby slippers, accompanied by her loyal companions. The significance of these shoes goes beyond their monetary value, as they symbolize the magic and whimsy of one of Hollywood’s most iconic films.
Heritage Auctions, the company tasked with selling the ruby slippers, believes that advance notice could allow institutions like the Judy Garland Museum to secure these valuable artifacts. By providing sufficient time for fundraising and planning, venues with limited resources can have a fighting chance to keep these pieces of cinematic history within their collections. The museum, which boasts the world’s largest collection of Garland and “Wizard of Oz” memorabilia, aims to ensure that these ruby slippers remain a part of its legacy for future generations to enjoy.
The journey to reclaim the stolen ruby slippers of Judy Garland is not just a tale of theft and redemption but a testament to the enduring legacy of one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars. With the collective efforts of Grand Rapids, Minnesota, and supporters from around the world, there is hope that these iconic shoes will find their way back home where they rightfully belong.