Leila's Hair Museum
- Admission
- $15 adults, $7.50 seniors (prior to closure)
- Hours
- Permanently closed
- Duration
- 1-2 hours
- Parking
- Free parking lot on site
- Access
- Wheelchair accessible entrance and restrooms
This unique museum is the only one of its kind in the world, dedicated entirely to the historic art of hair wreaths and jewelry. Visitors can marvel at over 2,000 intricate items dating back to the Victorian era, including pieces containing locks from historical figures like Daniel Webster.
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Established by retired cosmetologist Leila Cohoon, Leila's Hair Museum in Independence, Missouri, is the only museum in the world dedicated entirely to the art of hair. This unique institution houses an incredible collection of historic hair art dating back to the 17th century, showcasing a traditional craft that peaked during the Victorian era.
Visitors will find thousands of intricate items, including elaborate wreaths, brooches, rings, and paintings made entirely from human hair. Many of these pieces served as sentimental keepsakes or memorial tokens, representing a deeply personal form of historical remembrance.
Highlights of the collection include jewelry containing locks of hair from historical figures like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and Daniel Webster. The museum offers a fascinating, if slightly eccentric, window into the social customs and artistic patience of past generations.
Ratings
museumVisitor Tips
- ◆ Call ahead to confirm current operating hours, as they can sometimes be seasonal or subject to change.
- ◆ Take your time to examine the displays closely; the level of detail in the braided and woven hair art is incredibly intricate.
- ◆ Don't hesitate to ask questions, as the staff are highly knowledgeable and love sharing the stories behind the pieces.
- ◆ Keep an eye out for the historic pieces belonging to famous figures from American history.
Heads Up
- ◆ The concept of using human hair for art and jewelry may feel slightly unusual or macabre to some visitors.
- ◆ The museum houses a vast collection in a relatively small space, which can feel tight during busier moments.
Common questions
Is Leila's Hair Museum still open?
No, Leila's Hair Museum in Independence, Missouri, closed permanently in 2020.
What happened to the collection after Leila's Hair Museum closed?
The museum's entire collection of historical hair art, wreaths, and jewelry was sold at a public auction in 2021.
Was photography allowed inside the museum?
No, photography was strictly prohibited inside the museum to prevent light damage to the delicate, antique hair exhibits.