Where is the Real Magic Bus
The phrase "the real magic bus" conjures up images of adventure, freedom, and perhaps a touch of the psychedelic. For many, it immediately brings to mind the iconic 1960s counterculture and the legendary journeys of Ken Kesey and his Merry Pranksters. But when people ask, "Where is the real magic bus?", they're usually asking about a specific vehicle and its current whereabouts. Let's dive into the fascinating history and the eventual resting place of this iconic piece of American history.
The Original Magic Bus: Furthur
The vehicle we're talking about is officially known as Furthur (sometimes spelled Further). It was a 1939 International Harvester school bus, painted in vibrant, psychedelic patterns. This wasn't just any bus; it was the mobile headquarters and symbol of Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters. They used it in 1964 for a cross-country trip from California to New York, a journey that became legendary and was documented in Tom Wolfe's groundbreaking book, The Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test.
During their travels, the Pranksters, including Kesey, Neal Cassady, and various other artists, writers, and musicians, would stop in towns and host impromptu "happenings." These events often involved music, poetry, and, famously, LSD, which was legal and widely explored by the counterculture at the time. The bus itself became a character in the narrative, a vessel of consciousness expansion and a symbol of rebellion against the mainstream.
The Fate of Furthur
After its epic journey and its role in the cultural landscape of the 1960s, Furthur fell into disrepair. Like many vehicles of its era, and especially one that had seen such heavy use and perhaps unconventional maintenance, it eventually became too worn out to continue its adventures. Reports suggest the bus was eventually taken off the road and began to deteriorate.
For many years, the exact location of Furthur was a bit of a mystery, or at least its preserved state was. It wasn't until the early 2000s that efforts began to restore the bus. These efforts were spearheaded by the Kesey family, who were dedicated to preserving this important piece of their father's legacy.
The Magic Bus Today: A Restored Icon
So, where is the real magic bus *now*? After extensive restoration, the original Furthur bus is proudly displayed and occasionally driven. It is owned by the Kesey family and is primarily kept at the Kesey family farm in Pleasantville, Oregon. This farm, known as the Springfield, Oregon Farm, is where Ken Kesey lived and where many of the Merry Pranksters' gatherings took place. It's a fitting home for such a historically significant vehicle.
While it's not on a perpetual cross-country tour, Furthur does make appearances at special events, festivals, and exhibitions, particularly those related to the Grateful Dead, Ken Kesey, or the counterculture movement. Seeing the bus in person is a pilgrimage for many who are fascinated by that era of American history. The vibrant paint, the sheer presence of the vehicle, and the stories it holds make it an unforgettable sight.
It's important to distinguish the original Furthur from other buses that have been inspired by it. Over the years, numerous individuals and groups have created their own "magic bus" replicas or vehicles inspired by the spirit of Furthur. These are often seen on the road, but they are not the original vehicle that Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters rode.
Why is it called "Magic Bus"?
The name "Magic Bus" wasn't necessarily an official designation given by Kesey and the Pranksters to the bus itself, though "Furthur" was the name they used. The moniker "Magic Bus" became widely associated with the vehicle due to its mystical and transformative journeys as described in Tom Wolfe's book. The bus was seen as a catalyst for experiences, a vehicle for exploring new states of consciousness, and a symbol of a magical, unconventional way of life that the Pranksters embraced. It was a vessel that seemed to transport its occupants beyond the ordinary, hence the "magic."
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How did the original Furthur bus get its name?
A: The name "Furthur" was coined by Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters. It was a deliberate misspelling of "further," reflecting their desire to go beyond conventional boundaries and explore new frontiers of consciousness and experience.
Q: Was the original Furthur bus always painted with psychedelic designs?
A: No, the iconic psychedelic paint job was applied to the bus by the Merry Pranksters themselves as part of their artistic and expressive endeavors. The original school bus would have had a more conventional appearance.
Q: Can I visit the real magic bus?
A: While the Kesey family farm is a private residence, Furthur is sometimes exhibited at public events and festivals. Keeping an eye on news related to Ken Kesey or counterculture events might give you an opportunity to see the restored bus.
Q: Are there other "magic buses" besides the original Furthur?
A: Yes, many people have been inspired by the legend of Furthur and have created their own buses or vehicles with similar designs and intentions. These are often seen as homages to the original but are not the actual vehicle used by Ken Kesey and the Merry Pranksters.
