Have you ever had that moment when you realize just how grateful you are for indoor plumbing? Just how glad you are that you don’t have to hike out to an outhouse in the middle of winter? I know I have.
Toilets are one of the fabulous things our society truly values, and do you know what we like to do with things we value? Remember them. And put them up for display in a museum!
Now you’re wondering, “Is there a museum of toilets somewhere?” Well, yes, there is!
Sulabh International Museum of Toilets
The Sulabh International Museum of Toilets in New Delhi, India, displays the chronological development of toilets over the last 5,000 years. The museum raises awareness of the problems many people still face because of a lack of proper sanitation facilities, and it is sure to help you realize just how fortunate you truly are to have a toilet in your own home.
As you peruse the collection of toilets, enjoy such curiosities as a replica of a medieval commode disguised as a treasure chest that English hunters would use while camped out, or Queen Victoria’s fancy bidet. A visit to this museum is sure to leave you both amused and thankful.
Icelandic Saltfish Museum
An intriguing array of museums wraps around the globe. Take, for instance, the Icelandic Saltfish Museum in Grindavik, Iceland. The museum will show you what an Icelandic fishing village would’ve been like nearly 100 years ago. The display represents a truly valued aspect of Icelandic culture since the salted fish industry was critical to Iceland’s economic development and prosperity.
Stark’s Vacuum Museum
Do you value keeping a tidy house? Then maybe Stark’s Vacuum Museum in Portland, Oregon, is for you. See the historical progression of vacuums on display and imagine the bygone days of the two-person Busy-Bee vacuum and other iconic machines of the past.
Idaho Potato Museum
If you know anything about Idaho, you know that state values potatoes! The Idaho Potato Museum in Blackfoot showcases the history of the potato and offers other fun exhibits and activities including interesting potato experiments and Mr. Potato Head® races. You can also check out an impressive collection of potato mashers, along with the world’s largest potato chip ever made!
Wyandot Popcorn Museum
For popcorn lovers, the Wyandot Popcorn Museum in Marion, Ohio, is the place for you. The museum is home to the largest collection of restored popcorn antiques in the world, including a horse-drawn Model D Popcorn Wagon! True popcorn enthusiasts might want to plan their visit around the Marion Popcorn Festival, which takes place the first weekend after Labor Day each year.
Dog Collar Museum
Are you a dog lover? You’ll be in good company at the Dog Collar Museum in Kent, England. Enjoy a display of dog collars dating back to the late 1400s, including collars developed for very practical purposes and collars crafted for elaborate ornamentation. (Not to mention, this museum is housed in Leeds Castle, a destination worth visiting itself!)
Now that you’ve had a taste of what folks around the world think is worth displaying, maybe you’re inspired to find a venue to showcase your own favorite collection. Apparently, if you can collect it, you can display it!