Chester, Illinois is the hometown of Elzie Crisler Segar, the creator of Popeye the Sailor. This small town in southern Illinois has embraced its connection to the cartoon, with characters like Popeye, Olive Oyl, and Wimpy said to be inspired by real people Segar knew growing up. The town honours its most famous resident through a small but unique attraction: the Popeye Museum, located inside a shop called Spinach Can Collectibles.
The shop and museum are housed in a historic building that was once an opera house where a young Segar worked. Visitors can browse more than 2,000 pieces of Popeye memorabilia, including toys, posters, comic strips, costumes, and other items dating back to the early 20th century.
In addition to the museum, Chester features several other Popeye-themed attractions, including the Popeye & Friends Character Trail—a series of bronze statues placed throughout the town that represent characters from the comic strip and the real-life locals who inspired them. Each September, the town also hosts the Popeye Picnic, a community event that brings together fans and visitors for a celebration of all things Popeye.
More information
