The story begins back in 1986, when Boston Red Sox fan Barry Levenson found himself completely crushed following his team's heartbreaking loss to the New York Mets in the World Series. Consequently, while wandering aimlessly down the aisles of a Woodman's supermarket late at night with tears rolling down his cheeks, Levenson unexpectedly found solace in the condiment section.

As Ken Zuckerman—marketing director of fine-foods distributor Paul W. Marks Co. and a trained chef—recounts, Levenson stood before the shelves and heard a whisper from the jars telling him that if he collected them, people would come.  That has turned into the National Mustard Museum in Middleton, WI.  Getting ready to celebrate its 40th anniversary!

As the museum prepares to celebrate this incredible milestone on Saturday, October 24, it is asking its friends, fans and fellow mustard mavens to consider a $40 donation in honor of its 40th anniversary through its “$40 for 40 Years” campaign. Funds will support ongoing operations, new exhibits, and the digitization of its extensive collection so mustard fans can explore it from anywhere. Supporters can learn more and donate here. Admission to the museum remains free.