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Haunting

Robert the Doll

A Bahamian servant cursed a doll given to young Robert Eugene Otto. It moved on its own. It spoke. It destroyed things. Now in a museum, visitors must ask permission to photograph it—or face bad luck.

1906 - Present
Key West, Florida, USA
50000+ witnesses

Robert the Doll is the world’s most haunted toy.

The Origin

1906 gift:

  • Robert Eugene Otto
  • Given by servant
  • Allegedly cursed
  • Voodoo connection
  • Trouble began

The Activity

What happened:

  • Doll moved rooms
  • Changed positions
  • Giggled
  • Destroyed property
  • Blamed by Robert

Eugene Otto

Lifelong bond:

  • Kept Robert always
  • Talked to it
  • It answered
  • Married, doll stayed
  • Until his death 1974

The Artist House

Original home:

  • Key West mansion
  • New owners experienced
  • Same phenomena
  • Eventually donated
  • To museum

Fort East Martello

Current home:

  • Key West museum
  • Glass case
  • Thousands visit
  • Strange reports continue
  • Letters received

The Rules

Visitor protocol:

  • Ask permission to photograph
  • Be respectful
  • Or face consequences
  • Walls covered with apology letters
  • Bad luck reported

Sources