LELAND — The birthplace of the beloved muppet, Kermit the Frog, is in the final stages of a much needed makeover.
Just in time for Leland’s Frog Fest 2021, The Birthplace of the Frog: An Exhibit of Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood will be open and receiving visitors after being closed for an extended amount of time to allow for repairs to its interior and exterior.
Since stepping into the role two years ago, Rhonda Looney — curator of the exhibit — has endeavored to make sure the exhibit got the necessary renovations.
Washington County Building and Grounds department crews are currently working to complete the replacement of flooring and carpeting inside of the exhibit.
As for the exterior, Looney said some of the wood for the walkway was replaced.
“I’m very appreciative of the ones that have been working on this and it means a lot to Leland to have it open because that’s one of our claims to fame (Kermit the Frog),” she said. “We needed it open, especially right now because of the Frog Fest Saturday.”
Looney also pointed out the many people who have called inquiring about the exhibit in hopes of visiting.
“You hate for people to drive out of their way to come to something that isn’t even open so I’m glad that we’ll be reopening,” she said. “They have finally pulled through and I really appreciate it.”
The Birthplace of Kermit the Frog: An Exhibit of Jim Henson’s Delta Boyhood hours of operation are currently 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Hours of operation are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
It is closed on major holidays.
The exhibit was given by The Jim Henson Company as a “gift to the people of Leland.”
The exhibit features a tableau honoring Kermit the Frog’s birth on Deer Creek, photographs from the Henson Family Album, and a gift shop.
Admission to the exhibit, 415 SE Deer Creek Drive, is free to everyone.
Donations for the upkeep and maintenance of the exhibit are welcomed and appreciated.
Those interested in making a donation can do so by visiting the exhibit’s website at birthplaceofthefrog.com.
Tours for 10 or more people are available upon request and more information can be gathered by contacting the exhibit at 662-686-7383
