Barbie collectibles museum opens in Mount Vernon with ribbon cutting ceremony

Community members gathered with anticipation and excitement on Aug. 28 to celebrate the grand opening of Melanie’s Barbie Collectibles & More Museum, located at 1048 Newark Road in Mount Vernon. The event was marked by a formal red ribbon cutting ceremony, hosted in partnership with the Knox County Chamber of Commerce. The occasion drew a crowd of visitors, fans, and supporters eager to explore the city’s newest destination dedicated to one of the most iconic toys in history — Barbie.

Nestled just off State Route 13, Melanie’s Barbie Collectibles & More Museum brings a vibrant and colorful experience to Mount Vernon’s tourism landscape. The museum offers something for everyone — from lifelong collectors and nostalgic adults to curious children and visiting tourists. Its displays are designed not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire appreciation for Barbie's evolution through the decades.

The museum is the result of Melanie Mowery’s lifelong passion for Barbie collecting, a hobby she began as a young girl. Her fascination with Barbie started with the “Dolls of the World” series and was further fueled when her mother gave her a Holiday Barbie — a tradition that continued as family members gifted her new dolls in the years that followed. Over time, this hobby turned into a serious collection. Today, Melanie proudly shares that collection with the public, now totaling more than 2,000 Barbie dolls showcased in the museum.

The collection spans an impressive timeline, with dolls ranging from the early 1960s all the way to the present day. Visitors to the museum can view a wide range of Barbies, including vintage designs, rare finds, and limited-edition models. Each exhibit is thoughtfully arranged in a professionally designed setting that reflects Melanie’s deep commitment to quality presentation. The visual appeal and historical value of the displays offer a unique glimpse of Barbie’s cultural significance and her impact over generations.

Beyond the collection itself, the museum offers additional amenities designed to enhance the guest experience. One of the standout features is the Event & Party Room, a flexible space available for private bookings. This room can be customized for birthday parties, group events, and private tours, making it an ideal venue for celebrations of all kinds. 

The ribbon cutting event marked not only the official opening of the museum but also a new chapter in local tourism. As word spreads about the museum's unique offerings, it is expected to become a popular stop for visitors from near and far. Melanie’s vision — to share her passion with the public — has been brought to life in a setting that reflects both nostalgia and dedication.

For more information about Melanie’s Barbie Collectibles & More Museum, or to schedule a visit or event, contact the museum at (740) 564-9798, email melmowery@icloud.com, or visit the website at www.melaniesbarbiecollectibles.com. You can also stay updated by following the museum on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/melsbarbiemuseum.

With its doors now officially open, Melanie’s Barbie Collectibles & More Museum invites all guests to explore a world of fashion, fun, and history — right in the heart of Mount Vernon.