A group of Star Wars collectors, including Lisa Stevens, Vic Wertz, Steve Sansweet, Gus Lopez, and Duncan Jenkins, have come together to create a public museum dedicated to the sci-fi saga’s memorabilia. The proposed Saga Museum of Star Wars Memorabilia would bring together four massive collections, comprising more than 1.5 million objects, ranging from toy action figures to film props. The idea for the museum was announced during a fundraiser at Seattle’s Museum of Pop Culture and aims to provide educational, aesthetic, intellectual, and cultural exhibitions and programming for multiple generations.
The collections that would be featured in the Saga Museum of Star Wars Memorabilia are among the largest in the world, with each collector having their unique focus and specialty. For example, Steve Sansweet’s collection is certified by Guinness World Records as the largest Star Wars memorabilia collection in the world, and he was previously the director of content management and head of fan relations for Lucasfilm. Gus Lopez, a former Amazon executive, has created an extensive collection called “Bobacabana.” Duncan Jenkins is known for his comprehensive collection in Kansas City, Mo., called “The Sithsonian,” which focuses on international and unique memorabilia.
The team of collectors has launched a campaign to raise $2 million for a two-year planning phase to determine the location and construction of the museum. They are considering cities like Seattle or San Francisco for the museum’s home and envision a 200,000-square-foot space with rotating exhibits, a store, cafe, 300-seat theater, research center, meeting and conference rooms, and outdoor and rooftop gathering spaces. The goal is to create a space where hardcore fans and casual visitors alike can experience the magic of Star Wars in new and exciting ways.
The Saga Museum of Star Wars Memorabilia aims to be a place where fans of all ages can come together to explore the impact of the Star Wars stories on pop culture and the world at large. The museum will offer a variety of exhibitions and programming that showcase the fun and excitement of the science-fiction film series. With the combined collections of the four collectors, the museum will provide visitors with a unique and immersive experience that celebrates the enduring legacy of the Star Wars franchise. Anne Neumann, President of Rancho Obi-Wan, expressed the desire for the museum to be a space where everyone can experience the magic of Star Wars in a new and engaging way.
Overall, the Saga Museum of Star Wars Memorabilia represents a one-of-a-kind opportunity for fans of the iconic franchise to come together and celebrate their shared love for the Star Wars saga. The museum will showcase some of the largest and most comprehensive collections of Star Wars memorabilia in the world, offering visitors a chance to experience the history and impact of the beloved franchise in a new and exciting setting. With the support of dedicated collectors and enthusiasts, the museum aims to create a space that honors the enduring legacy of Star Wars and its cultural significance.
