The Gummy Genesis of Seattle's Chewiest Tourist Trap: How the Gum Wall Stuck Around
Seattle's Pike Place Market is a haven for fresh fish, flying fishmongers, and, well, a whole lot of used chewing gum? Yep, nestled down a grimy alleyway lurks the infamous Gum Wall, a multi-colored monument to mankind's love of the sugary chew. But how, you ask, did this sticky situation all begin? Buckle up, history buffs (and germophobes, look away!), because we're about to delve into the delightfully dubious origins of Seattle's chewiest landmark.
From Penny Power to Minty Mischief: The Gum Wall's Sticky Start
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The story goes back to the early 1990s, a time when grunge ruled the airwaves and flan was all the rage. The Market Theater, a venue known for its edgy productions, had a brick wall outside its box office. This seemingly ordinary surface became an unlikely canvas for some bored theatergoers. The legend goes that patrons waiting in line started sticking their used gum, adorned with a lucky penny, onto the wall. Some say it was for good luck, others for amusement. Whatever the reason, it stuck (literally).
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The Great Gum Debate: Sticky Situation or Tourist Triumph?
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The theater wasn't exactly thrilled about their newfound brick-based art installation. Multiple cleaning attempts proved futile against the ever-growing gum glob. The Pike Place Market Preservation and Development Authority (say that five times fast) also wasn't a fan. They saw the gum as an unsightly mess. But then, something funny happened. Tourists started flocking to see this bizarre spectacle. The gum wall, it seemed, had a certain...charm. By 1999, the verdict was in: the gum wall was here to stay, becoming a quirky tourist attraction that perfectly embodies Seattle's unique character.
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| How Did The Gum Wall In Seattle Start |
Fun Fact: Chewing on History
Over the years, the gum wall has grown into a multi-colored behemoth, estimated to contain over a million pieces of chewed gum. It's a testament to the power of human…persistence? Let's go with that. The wall has also become a bit of a social experiment. People from all over the world have left their mark, adding to the chaotic, colorful tapestry.
How ToFAQs: Your Guide to Getting Gummy in Seattle
- How to get to the Gum Wall? Head down Post Alley, right next to the Pike Place Market. Just follow your nose (or the faint scent of peppermint).
- How much gum should I add? Use your best judgment! Just remember, you're adding to a public art installation, so keep it reasonable.
- What kind of gum is best for the wall? Honestly, it doesn't matter. Just make sure it's used (unchewed gum won't stick).
- Is it sanitary? Let's just say it's not recommended for germophobes. But hey, if you're worried, pack some hand sanitizer!
- Will my gum stay on the wall? Only time (and the weather) will tell. But hey, it's all part of the fun (and slightly dubious) history of the Seattle Gum Wall!
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