Did you know L. Frank Baum wrote The Wizard of Oz at a cottage near Lake Michigan? An actual yellow-brick road is being paved to honor his work.

You can pretend to be off to see the wizard and begin your quest for courage, a heart or a brain in downtown Holland, Michigan. Beloved author L. Frank Baum created the wonderful world of Oz while staying at a family cottage on Lake Macatawa, just a few miles from Lake Michigan. Now, the city is constructing a real-life yellow brick road and a special exhibit, dedicated his enchanting work. Here's the vision for The Holland Oz Project:

Bronze sculptures, a living floral mosaic, the yellow-brick road, and whimsical horticulture will honor L. Frank Baum who penned the classic tale, The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, while staying at his family cottage in Macatawa. In Centennial Park, annual plants will be used to create a 10’ X 12’ “open book” cover of this classic novel.  The iconic Yellow Brick Road will lead you to Herrick District Library where it winds through landscaped areas of colorful annuals and perennials. Six life-sized bronze sculptures from The Wonderful Wizard of Oz will be placed along the Yellow Brick Road, allowing visitors to interact with them. Not only will children find this exhibit enchanting, but kids of all ages will enjoy seeing these beloved characters in Holland!

See the ongoing work at the intersection of 10th Street and S. River Ave. in historic downtown Holland, Michigan. (Pink Floyd soundtrack optional.)

 

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