Skeletons in the Closet: The Macabre Gift Shop of the LA County Coroner’s Office
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner opened a gift shop named Skeletons in the Closet in the early 1990s to fund a program for young offenders. Despite controversy, the shop became a hit, selling death-themed merchandise. It eventually closed due to its location near the medical examiner's room.
Key Points
- Opened in early 1990s to fund a program for young offenders
- Sold death-themed merchandise like beach towels with chalk outlines and toe tag keychains
- Netted $750,000 annually by 1998
- Closed due to concerns about appropriateness of location near the medical examiner's room
Pros
- Successfully funded a program for young offenders
- Gained international attention and revenue through unique merchandise
Cons
- Controversial and considered in poor taste by some
- Raised concerns about reinforcing negative stereotypes of Los Angeles