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If you’re a fan of mustard, then you won’t want to miss the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin. This unique museum boasts an extensive collection of prepared mustards from around the world, with over 5,600 jars on display. From French and English mustards to exotic fruit and garlic varieties, the museum has something for every taste bud.
The National Mustard Museum was founded by Barry Levenson in 1986, after he started collecting mustards as a hobby. The museum’s origins are rooted in a late-night visit to an all-night grocery store, where Levenson heard a voice say, “If you collect us, they will come.” Since then, the museum has become a popular destination for mustard lovers and curious visitors alike. In addition to the impressive collection of mustards, the museum also offers tastings, a gift shop, and educational exhibits on the history and science of mustard.
Whether you’re a connoisseur of condiments or just looking for a unique museum experience, the National Mustard Museum is definitely worth a visit. With its quirky exhibits and extensive collection of mustards, it’s sure to be a memorable stop on your travels.
History of the National Mustard Museum
Origins
The National Mustard Museum began as the “Mount Horeb Mustard Museum” when its founder and curator, Barry Levenson, started collecting mustards on October 27, 1986. According to the official website, Levenson was inspired to start the museum after experiencing a “midlife crisis” while shopping for mustard at a grocery store. He decided to quit his job as an assistant attorney general in Wisconsin and pursue his passion for mustard.
Levenson’s collection of mustards grew rapidly, and he eventually decided to open a museum to showcase his collection. The original Mount Horeb Mustard Museum was located in a small storefront in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, and featured a few hundred mustards.
Evolution Over the Years
As the museum’s popularity grew, it moved to larger locations in Mount Horeb and then to Middleton, Wisconsin. In 2009, the museum moved to its current location in downtown Middleton and changed its name to the more encompassing “National Mustard Museum.” The museum’s collection has grown to more than 6,500 mustards from all 50 United States and over 70 countries, along with mustard memorabilia.
The National Mustard Museum has become a popular tourist attraction and has been featured in numerous media outlets, including the New York Times, Food Network, and Travel Channel. Despite its success, the museum remains a labor of love for Levenson, who still serves as its curator and is known for his passion for all things mustard.
Exhibits and Collections
The National Mustard Museum boasts an extensive collection of over 5,624 mustards from all 50 states and more than 70 countries. The museum’s massive collection of mustards and mustard memorabilia is a sight to behold, and it’s no wonder that it’s one of Wisconsin’s most popular tourist spots.
Permanent Exhibits
The centerpiece of the museum’s collection is an ever-growing display of prepared mustards, nearly 6,000 jars, bottles, and tubes from all over the world. The Great Wall of Mustard is a popular attraction that features over 5,000 jars of mustard from around the globe. The museum also has a collection of vintage French’s mustard ads from yesteryear, as well as ornate and dazzling mustard jars.
Special Exhibits
In addition to the permanent collection, the museum has rotating exhibits that showcase different aspects of mustard. These exhibits change regularly, so there is always something new to see. Some of the past special exhibits include “The World of Mustard,” “The Great American Mustard Road Trip,” and “The Art of Mustard.”
Whether you’re a die-hard mustard lover or just looking for a fun and unique experience, the National Mustard Museum is a must-visit destination. With free admission, you can learn, taste, shop, and laugh your way through the exhibits.
Visitor Experience
If you’re a mustard lover, then a visit to the National Mustard Museum is a must. The museum offers a unique experience where you can learn, taste, shop, and laugh! Here are some of the things you can expect during your visit.
Interactive Activities
The museum offers several interactive activities that allow you to engage with the exhibits in a fun and informative way. One of the most popular activities is the “Poupon U” mustard-making class. In this class, you’ll learn about the history of mustard and how to make your own mustard from scratch. You’ll get to take home a jar of your own creation!
Another popular activity is the “MustardPiece Theatre.” This is a humorous and educational video presentation that explores the history of mustard and its many uses. The presentation is filled with fun facts and interesting stories that are sure to entertain and educate.
Tasting Events
No visit to the National Mustard Museum would be complete without sampling some of the many mustards on offer. The museum has a tasting bar where you can sample dozens of different mustards from around the world. The staff is knowledgeable and friendly, and can help you find the perfect mustard to suit your taste.
In addition to the tasting bar, the museum also hosts tasting events throughout the year. These events are a great way to try new and unique mustards and to meet other mustard enthusiasts. Some of the events include the “World-Wide Mustard Competition” and the “Mustard Madness Festival.”
A visit to the National Mustard Museum is a fun and educational experience that is sure to delight mustard lovers of all ages.
Location and Accessibility
If you’re a fan of mustard, the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin, is a must-visit destination. The museum is located at 7477 Hubbard Avenue in Middleton, at the corner of Hubbard and Parmenter.
Directions
If you’re driving, you can easily reach the museum via U.S. Route 14, which runs right through Middleton. The museum is also accessible via public transportation. You can take the Madison Metro bus system to the Middleton Transfer Point and then transfer to the Middleton Trolley, which stops just a few blocks from the museum.
Facilities
The National Mustard Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM, typically seven days a week (except New Year’s Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas). Admission to the museum is free, but donations are always appreciated.
The museum is wheelchair accessible, with a ramp leading up to the entrance and an elevator to take visitors to the second floor. There are also accessible restrooms available.
If you’re hungry or thirsty, you can stop by the Mustard Museum Gift Shop, which offers a variety of snacks and beverages, including a selection of mustards to sample. The gift shop also has a wide variety of mustard-related merchandise available for purchase, including t-shirts, hats, and kitchen gadgets.
The National Mustard Museum is a fun and accessible destination for mustard lovers of all ages.
Community Involvement
The National Mustard Museum is an integral part of the Middleton community, and the locals love it. The museum and shop have seen a lot of community support over the last year from shoppers, as well as local organizations like Middleton Tourism, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Downtown Middleton Business Association.
Annual Events
The museum hosts several annual events that are a big hit with the community. One such event is National Mustard Day, which is held on the first Saturday in August. This event features live music, games, and of course, plenty of mustard. Another popular event is the Front Porch Series, which is held during the summer months. This event features live music, food, and drinks, and is a great way to spend a summer evening.
Educational Programs
The National Mustard Museum also offers educational programs for children and adults alike. The museum’s “Mustard University” program is a popular choice for school groups, and it offers a fun and interactive way for children to learn about the history and science of mustard. The museum also offers cooking classes and workshops for adults, where participants can learn how to cook with mustard and other condiments.
The National Mustard Museum is much more than just a museum. It’s a community hub, a place where locals can come together to celebrate their love of mustard and enjoy each other’s company. Whether you’re a mustard enthusiast or just looking for a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon, the National Mustard Museum is definitely worth a visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the history of the National Mustard Museum?
The National Mustard Museum was founded in 1992 by Barry Levenson, who had a personal collection of over 5,000 mustards. It began as a tribute to his favorite condiment and has since grown to become the largest collection of prepared mustards in the world.
What are some popular mustard recipes from the Mustard Museum?
The Mustard Museum has a variety of recipes that use mustard as a key ingredient. Some popular recipes include honey mustard chicken, mustard-glazed salmon, and mustard potato salad. You can find these recipes and more on the Mustard Museum’s website.
What are Mustard Days at the Mustard Museum?
Mustard Days is an annual event held at the Mustard Museum in Middleton, Wisconsin. It is a celebration of all things mustard and includes live music, food vendors, and, of course, plenty of mustard tastings. The event typically takes place in August and is a must-visit for any mustard lover.
How many different types of mustard are on display at the Mustard Museum?
The Mustard Museum has over 6,000 different types of mustard on display, making it the largest collection of prepared mustards in the world. The collection includes mustards from all over the world, including France, Germany, and Japan.
Where is the National Mustard Museum located?
The National Mustard Museum is located in Middleton, Wisconsin, a suburb of Madison. The museum is located at 7477 Hubbard Ave, just off Highway 12.
How much does it cost to visit the National Mustard Museum?
Admission to the National Mustard Museum is free, though donations are always appreciated. The museum is a non-profit organization and relies on donations to continue to operate and grow its collection.
