Ventriloquism Museum – its the real deal

First, as I have said in past posts, there is a museum for everything. And, when I find those unexpected, obscure museums, PugsleyTonks must investigate. Usually, these blog missions lead to an informative and cleverly written post about said museum. But, my writings may tend to be a bit sarcastic, bordering on mockery, towards the museums. But, its all in good fun. So, when I heard about a museum for ventriloquism, my interest was peaked. I envisioned writing about some creepy collection of dolls that some obsessive and strange man accumulated in his garage. Well, there is some of that. But, this place was much more. This place and its curator were impressive. Vent Haven...the Ventriloquism Museum – its the real deal.

First, Vent Haven does not look like a museum at initial glance. Rather, Its in a pleasant residential neighborhood in northern Kentucky, just south of Cincinnati. The curator lives in the main house. Additionally, to the left of the curator house, there are 3 smaller matching buildings. Together, these 3 side buildings make up what is Vent Haven. Vent Haven is the undisputed Mecca for all things ventriloquism. The curator, who was a wonderful and extremely knowledgeable person, handles all the tours by appointment only. And, these private 60 minute tours were only $10 each. So, prepare yourself for the magic and fun of Vent Haven…

Admittedly, seeing this many dummies together does have a creepy element to it. But, this place is so much more. Let’s back up to the beginning. Vent Haven’s existence is credited to W.S. Berger. In 1910, Mr. Berger (32 years old at the time) got his very first dummy, Tommy Baloney. Mr. Berger was a successful business man and he never stopped adding to his collection over the decades. Additionally, he was a leader in all the ventriloquism national organizations. He lived to be 94 years old. But sadly, he outlived his wife and all his child. To protect his collection, Mr. Berger started a 501(c)3 to make this an official charitable organization. In 1972, Mr. Berger died and his home and property became Vent Haven.

To overstate my main point, this place is the real deal. So, if you can recall any ventriloquist…..he/she has been here. Edgar Bergen, God Father of all ventriloquism, was here in the 60s to dedicate one of the new buildings. The most successful ventriloquists in the world are represented here and have visited at least once. If you fail to recall any ventriloquist, try these other names Shari Lewis (Lamb Chop), Paul Winchell, Jeff Dunham, Wilie Tyler (and Lester), Wayland Flowers (and Madame) or Darci Lynne Farmeer. Yes, whoever you have heard of in the ventriloquist world…they pay homage to Vent Haven. Every year (pre-covid), there is an international ventriloquist convention. Its always in the Cincinnati area because of Vent Haven…its the real deal.

The impact of the museum goes beyond just that site. As I said, the curator is a very impressive and knowledgeable person. Additionally, she does lectures at universities and around the nation on various aspects of ventriloquism. For example, her lectures have addressed how such things as racism and sexism have impacted ventriloquism over the last 100 years. The pictures above tell a small bit of the picture.

Well, is that enough said? Have I made my point? Please, give Vent Haven a chance. Because, its an internationally known museum. Not to mention, it is well funded…well maintained…interesting…educational. So, if you are going to be in Cincinnati, give the curator a call and set up your own private tour. Both my wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Vent Haven...the Ventriloquism Museum – its the real deal. PT

In conclusion, let me just end this with a couple more dummies that caught my eye…

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