Image courtesy of the Mascot Hall of Fame
The Mascot Hall of Fame in Whiting, Indiana was recently named the number one Pop Culture Museum in the United States by USA Today. The recognition comes as a result of USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, where the winners are determined by a public vote.
The Hall of Fame was founded in 2005 as an online museum by original Phillie Phanatic David Raymond. It opened its physical location on the shores of Lake Michigan in 2018. Since 2005, the Hall has elected a class of mascots into its membership each year, based on the criteria of being active for over 10 years, and impacting their team, fanbase, and community.
“This incredible feat marks a momentous occasion not only for the beloved mascots but also for the dedicated team behind the scenes who work tirelessly to bring joy and laughter to visitors from all corners of the globe,” said a spokesperson for the Mascot Hall of Fame in a news release. “As confetti rains down and cheers echo, the Mascot Hall of Fame stands tall as a testament to the power of imagination and boundless possibilities of play.”
Just a half-hour outside of Chicago, the Mascot Hall of Fame features interactive exhibits and a host of memorabilia honoring some of the most popular mascots of all-time. The Phillie Phanatic was part of the inaugural Hall class, along with the Suns Gorilla and the Famous San Diego Chicken. Other mascot who’ve been inducted in the ensuing years include the Spurs Coyote, Brutus Buckeye, and Mr. Met.
“Congratulations to all mascots for this well deserved recognition,” the release continued. “Congratulations to Mayor Steve Spebar and the City of Whiting team for believing in our mission. Congratulations to the heart and soul of the Mascot Hall of Fame – our staff.”
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