A Journey Through Television History

As a museum curator with a passion for interactive exhibits, I was thrilled to visit the Lucille Ball Museum in Jamestown, New York. This museum is a tribute to the legendary Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, and it offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of classic television. My family and I arrived early, eager to explore the exhibits and immerse ourselves in the history of one of television’s most iconic couples.

Upon entering the museum, we were greeted by the East Gallery, which is dedicated to the “I Love Lucy Show.” This section of the museum is a treasure trove of costumes, props, and sets from the beloved series. As we wandered through the gallery, we marveled at the attention to detail and the care taken to preserve these pieces of television history. The re-creation of the “I Love Lucy” apartment was a particular highlight, allowing us to step back in time and experience the magic of the show firsthand.

The East Gallery also features an interactive display where visitors can create their own Vitameatavegamin commercial, a nod to one of the show’s most famous episodes. This hands-on experience was a hit with my children, who enjoyed pretending to be Lucy for a few moments. The gallery also includes a well-stocked gift shop and clean, conveniently located restrooms, making it a comfortable and enjoyable visit for families.

Discovering the Personal Lives of Lucy and Desi

After exploring the East Gallery, we made our way to the West Gallery, which focuses on the personal lives of Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz. This section of the museum offers a more intimate look at the couple, showcasing items from their pasts, including home movies, Desi’s records, and Lucille’s dresses from various films and specials.

One of the standout exhibits in the West Gallery is Lucy’s Gold Mercedes, a stunning piece of automotive history that adds a touch of glamour to the museum. As we explored this gallery, we gained a deeper appreciation for the impact Lucy and Desi had on the entertainment industry and their enduring legacy.

The museum was undergoing some updates during our visit, but this did not detract from the overall experience. The thoughtful layout and engaging exhibits made it easy to navigate and enjoy, even with the ongoing renovations. The museum also provides a brochure with a map to local murals and significant sites related to Lucy’s life, offering visitors the opportunity to further explore her hometown.

A Family-Friendly Experience

As a family who loves to travel and explore cultural landmarks, the Lucille Ball Museum was a perfect fit for us. The museum’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Lucy and Desi is evident in every exhibit, and the interactive elements make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

The museum’s location in Jamestown, New York, adds to its charm, as it allows visitors to explore the town that played such a significant role in Lucy’s life. The brochure provided by the museum offers a guide to local sites, including Lucy’s birth home, childhood home, Memorial Park, and burial site, making it easy to plan a comprehensive visit.

Overall, our visit to the Lucille Ball Museum was a delightful journey through television history and a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the lives of two iconic figures. Whether you’re a die-hard “I Love Lucy” fan or simply interested in the history of television, this museum is a must-visit destination that offers something for everyone.