Most of us remember Kermit the Frog – the green one. But did you know the first Kermit was more grayish/green? We didn’t either until we stumbled on the “Leland MS Birthplace of Kermit the Frog, An Exhibit of Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood” in Leland, Mississippi.
While Henson is more well-known for living in Washington, D.C., it turns out he was born at a hospital in Greenville, MS, just eight miles west of Leland. Until his family moved when he was in middle school, he lived and played in Leland along Deer Creek, developing his personality and artistic creativity. Puppets seemed to be his passion, which eventually led to the creation of Muppets.
Kermit debuted in 1955, when black and white TV was king, so the color of Kermit wasn’t important at that time. But as color TV became mainstream, Kermit’s color was changed to a more vibrant green. And that’s how we got the green Kermit that we all know and love.
Sadly, Henson never got to see the museum, although he knew about it. He sent a kind letter in 1979, hoping to visit someday. But he died before he could see the displays that honor his most famous, beloved, and artistic creation.
But you can still see it! So, hop in your car and head to Leland, Mississippi. Whether you watched as a child, or with your children or grandchildren, you’ll be taken back in time, recalling the early days of watching Kermit’s antics with his friends.
The museum is free, but of course donations are always appreciated. Make sure to visit the gift shop and get your favorite Sesame Street memorabilia for your kids, grandkids – or yourself!
The museum/gift shop is located at:
415 S. Deer Creek Dr E
Leland, MS 38756
Winter hours are 10am-4pm, Monday – Saturday.
Summer Hours are 10am-5pm, Monday – Saturday.
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