Rancho Obi-Wan: A Journey Through the World’s Largest Private Collection of Star Wars Memorabilia
Summary
In this article, we take a closer look at Rancho Obi-Wan, the world’s largest private collection of Star Wars memorabilia. We explore the collection, which includes original props, fan-made items, and original art. We also discuss the tours available for visitors and the opportunity to auction off tours for charities. Rancho Obi-Wan aims to reawaken the joy of Star Wars and the multi-generational saga it has become.
Table of Contents
- The Collection at Rancho Obi-Wan
- Tours of Rancho Obi-Wan
- Auctions for Charities
- Reawakening the Joy of Star Wars
The Collection at Rancho Obi-Wan
Rancho Obi-Wan is home to the world’s largest private collection of Star Wars memorabilia. The collection includes everything from original props to fan-made items and original art. There is very little that has not been made worldwide at some point for Star Wars, and if it hasn’t been made, then some fan somewhere has probably made it.
One of the unique items in the collection is a bike built by former colleague Pete Vilme. Based on a Skywalker Ranch bicycle, it is tricked out for the Empire Strikes Back, complete with lightsaber headlights and taillights, a Darth Vader horn, and a little add-ad in case someone won’t get out of your way. The bike even has a ship from the Empire Strikes Back on the back, which was used to escape from the planet Hoth.
The collection has been inventoried at approximately 95,000 items so far, which is estimated to be one-third of the total collection. It is estimated that there are around 300,000 separate pieces in the collection.
Tours of Rancho Obi-Wan
For the last year or so, Rancho Obi-Wan has been operating as a non-profit and offering tours of the collection. Visitors can explore the collection and learn about the history of Star Wars and the making of the films.
In addition to regular tours, Rancho Obi-Wan also offers tours for school groups. Teachers are asked in advance what they would like to stress on the tour, whether it be Star Wars and real-world science or Star Wars as a method of finding a career. The tours are tailored to the interests of the teacher and their students.
Auctions for Charities
Rancho Obi-Wan also gives charities the chance to auction off tours of the collection. This provides a unique opportunity for Star Wars fans to explore the collection while supporting a good cause.
Reawakening the Joy of Star Wars
Rancho Obi-Wan aims to reawaken the joy of Star Wars and the fun that fans first experienced when they saw the movies for the first time. Whether the first movie was the original Star Wars or The Phantom Menace on the big screen, Star Wars has become a multi-generational saga both in the movies and among fans.
The first toy company to sell Star Wars toys, Kenner, came up with the ad slogan “Star Wars is forever.” And it’s true. Rancho Obi-Wan is a testament to the lasting impact of the Star Wars franchise and the joy it brings to fans of all ages.
Conclusion
Rancho Obi-Wan is a must-visit destination for Star Wars fans. The collection is vast and diverse, and the tours provide a unique opportunity to explore the history of the franchise. The auctions for charities also provide a chance to support a good cause while experiencing the joy of Star Wars. Rancho Obi-Wan truly reawakens the magic of Star Wars and the fun it brings to fans of all ages.
