^TM

Just as every Elvis fan longs to visit Graceland, SPAM fans worldwide now have their own pilgrimage to make. SPAM, the tasty world-famous luncheon meat, now has its very own museum!

The new museum opened its doors to the public in the fall of 2001. Located in Austin, Minn., the 16,500 square-foot museum is dedicated to the quirky joys and unprecedented excitement inspired by SPAM. The museum also pays homage to Hormel Foods, the company that produces the 64-year-old American icon.

"SPAM luncheon meat is much more than a great-tasting food product. It's a slice of Americana that deserves recognition," said Julie Craven, director of public relations for Hormel Foods. "The new museum will be a fun place where people of all ages can discover the origin of SPAM, explore its history and celebrate its great taste and overwhelming popularity."

Through a series of exhibits, interactive games and video presentations, the museum houses thousands of items from Hormel Foods past. Museum visitors can check out a World War II display depicting the role SPAM played in the war, participate in the SPAM Exam, an interactive game show based on SPAM trivia, enjoy creative SPAM advertisements from the past 64 years, discover the creation of SPAM and participate in a simulated SPAM production line. Throughout the museum, visitors will find unique photo opportunities.

The SPAM Museum is open from Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and on Sundays from 12 Noon-4 p.m. There is no admission fee. For more information go to www.spam.com.

Edited by Cynthia Ward Cooper

Back to TravelLady Magazine