THE LAUREL AND HARDY MUSEUM (GEORGIA)

Did you know that there's more than one museum dedicated to the life and times of Laurel and Hardy? One of these museums is based in Ulverston, Cumbria, which is the birthplace of one-half of this double-act, Stan Laurel. Whereas the other one is based in... errr... uhhh... wait a minute! Let my mate Gary tell you! After all, he is a creative genius and works and lives in the same place as Ollie. Gary, it's now over to you, pal.





1) Please tell us a little bit about yourself, Gary, including your involvement with the 'Laurel and Hardy Museum' (Georgia).   As well as being a volunteer for the main branch of the 'Laurel & Hardy Museum', I'm also involved with the second branch too. It's called, 'The Ollie Also & Stanie Too Old Car Museum', and it's hidden in the pine trees just a block and a half from the official site, where I've made a series of full-size wooden cars and a variety of other gems, including a half-scale 'General' train (entirely made of wood).

2) What were the circumstances that led up to the formation of this museum?   Harlem was the birthplace of Oliver Norvell Hardy. He was born on the 18th of January, 1892, and he was the comedic partner of Stan Laurel, real name, Arthur Stanley Jefferson, who was born on the 16th of June, 1890, in Ulverston, England. 'The Boys', as they are affectionately called, made 106 movies together and remained buddies for the rest of their lives.

3) What is your favorite Laurel and Hardy film?   Obviously, I just love watching them all. But if I had to choose one out of the bunch, it would most probably be, “County Hospital”. One of the main reasons why I have selected this classic is because I have a great interest in Model T Fords. You see, in the picture, Stan goes to visit Ollie in the Hospital after he's had an accident, and...

4) Can you tell us about some of the items you have on display?   We show all the movies on an annual basis and have a variety of memorabilia and props on display, such as novelty pinball machines, statues, posters, pictures, and just about every collectable ever made, all thanks to the generosity of the SOD’s (Son’s of the Desert) and collector’s around the world. 

5) What is your favorite piece and why?   I made a photo opp of “A Perfect Day” (see picture provided), and it's a big hit in the museum. 

6) Do you commemorate any of the anniversaries associated with Laurel and Hardy, and if so, how?   On the first weekend of October, every year, Harlem holds the Oliver Hardy Festival. This year it will be the thirtieth anniversary of this festival, and of course, Stan is always included.   

And on that note, I'd like to thank Gary for telling us about these two museums. 'The Laurel & Hardy Museum' is located on 250 North Louisville Street, Harlem, Georgia, and is open Tuesday thru to Saturday, between 10am to 4pm, whereas 'The Ollie Also & Stanie Too Old Car Museum' is located at 415 East Boundary Street, also in Harlem, Georgia. Now for any more information please don't hesitate to check out their website and facebook pages.