The Feline Historical Museum, located on the first floor of the Cat Fanciers’ Association’s (CFA) headquarters, has been welcoming guests into its unique archives since 2012. The museum actually stores the largest collection of cat memorabilia in America — something that cat lovers and history buffs alike will surely appreciate.
Among this large collection, guests can find incredibly interesting (and rare) cat-related artifacts like the cat house designed by famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the silver collar of the cat who won America’s first cat show in 1895, and, on occasion, real live cats. During certain times of the year, the Feline Historical Museum welcomes cat breeds like Maine Coons, Ragdolls, Japanese Bobtails and Siberians into its humble abode to entertain its patrons. Be sure to check the calendar to stay up-to-date on these feline visits.
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Near the back of the museum, guests will be able to uncover a small library of around 700 books about cats that highlight the unique history of the species, as well as some truly interesting reads related to the CFA and cat shows.
Aside from these displays, you’ll be able to find this worship of the feline species throughout the entire museum — even in the bathroom, where guests will catch a glimpse of decorative Chinese prints of cats on the walls.
It’s also imperative that guests pay a visit to the unique collection of cat dolls housed in what once was the Midland-Buckeye’s bank vault. Inside of this room, you will find cats dressed up as kings and queens, brides and grooms, and even as recognizable characters like Cinderella.
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Admission to the museum is free. The Feline Historical Museum is located in Alliance, a city located about an hour southeast of Cleveland.
WANT TO GO?
What: The Feline Historical Museum
Where: 260 E. Main St., Alliance, OH
Hours: Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Saturday. Closed on Sunday and Monday.
Cost: Free
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