Minneapolis Set for Major Ruby Slipper Auction
In the heart of Minneapolis, things are getting a little magical this weekend as the iconic ruby slippers worn by Judy Garland in the timeless classic “The Wizard of Oz” go under the auctioneer’s hammer! These famous shoes have quite a tale to tell, and they’re about to be the center of attention once again.
The Historic Slippers
For those who don’t know, these dazzling sequined slippers have been loved by fans since the movie’s debut in 1939. They were displayed proudly at the Judy Garland Museum in Grand Rapids, Minnesota, until their theft in 2005. Terry Jon Martin, a man with a questionable track record, smashed his way into the museum to grab his prize. The shoes, valued at around $1 million, disappeared without a trace for over a decade.
The Great Recovery
Fast forward to 2018, and voilà! The FBI recovered the slippers, but not before a series of court cases and twists that rival even Oz itself. Martin, who was later identified as the thief, was indicted in May 2023. He finally pleaded guilty in October and, due to health concerns, received a sentence of time served. In a somber turn of events, he entered the courtroom in a wheelchair, highlighting the stark reality of his situation.
From Theft to Auction Block
Now, these famous red shoes are set to make their return to the limelight, with estimates that they could fetch a staggering $3 million or more at auction! Online bidding opened last month and, just days before the big event, bids had already soared to an impressive $1.55 million. Excitement is in the air, with over 800 people keeping a close eye on the auction and nearly 43,000 views on the auction house’s page!
What’s Happening Next?
As part of this exciting auction, members from the Judy Garland Museum will be in attendance, eager to see if their community can bring home the iconic footwear. After all, the city of Grand Rapids has been actively raising funds, even setting aside $100,000 from state lawmakers for the chance to buy the shoes. Local supporters have been rallying together during their annual Judy Garland festival to boost the fundraising efforts.
The auction is coming at a perfect time, following the recent buzz around “Wicked,” a beloved musical that serves as a prequel to “The Wizard of Oz.” With many fans revisiting the classic story, interest in the ruby slippers has been reignited. But that’s not all—the auction also features a hat worn by Margaret Hamilton, who played the original Wicked Witch of the West. Talk about a collector’s dream!
A Look Back
To think of Dorothy clicking her heels three times, declaring, “There’s no place like home,” makes us all a bit nostalgic. Those who know the movie well understand the true magic of those moments, and the slippers themselves hold a piece of that enchantment. Only four known pairs of these ruby slippers still exist today. Will one of them finally find their way back to their rightful home in Grand Rapids? We’ll find out soon enough!
The Final Countdown
As the countdown to the auction continues, the buzz surrounding the ruby slippers grows louder. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the classic film or an avid collector, this is an event that promises to be both exciting and historic. Who knows—you might just be witnessing the re-emergence of a significant piece of cinematic history!
Stay tuned as this story unfolds, because just like in Oz, anything can happen!
