#11: Dorothy’s Iconic Slippers Were Stolen

In a bizarre and audacious theft, the pair of iconic ruby red slippers worn by Judy Garland in the film vanished from the Judy Garland Museum in Minnesota in 2005. These cherished artifacts were not only a symbol of cinematic history but also an invaluable piece of American culture. The theft shook the museum, and in an effort to recover the stolen footwear, they hired their own private investigator.

With the slippers insured for a staggering $1 million, the stakes were high. The search for the missing slippers captured the nation’s attention and led to an extensive investigation. While the shoes were eventually recovered in 2018, the story of their theft and the museum’s relentless pursuit to reclaim them remains a testament to the enduring magic and cultural significance of The Wizard of Oz.