Tucson is home to the Mini Time Machine Museum of Miniatures, which by the name gave me the impression that it would be a slightly interesting, but kitschy Roadside America type of a place. I was surprised to find the building, and contents to be a high quality museum.
The museum is a result of the passion of Patricia Arnell and her husband Walter. Pat started collecting miniatures as a small girl in the 1930s, up until she passed away just last year.
The collection, stated to number more than 500, including some from 200 years ago, and features a fantastic collection of displays over the years, hence the name Mini Time Machines.
The details are amazing – notice the tiny loom has an actual rug being weaved.
Many of the displays feature well known people or items. When close up’s are taken it is difficult to realize these items are just a few inches tall.
As an Addams Family fan, I spent considerable time checking out the entire family, each in their own room.
It is only when you see a collection of them with people in the background do you get a sense of the small scale, and intricate detail.
The collection is wide and varied, all with great detail – note the bottles on the table.
The artist and his collection of tiny paintings.
A library full of individual books.
The Mini Time Machine Museums of Miniatures is a highlight of Tucson.
RDZ Photography 