Sorry for today’s late post. Sometimes life keeps you busy and away from all things internet. But speaking of the interwebs, did you know there is an actual tumblr dedicated to one of the creepiest things you can ever see at a museum? Yes, I’m talking about the mannequin. No one knows for sure why it exists. Whether used in random historic recreations or some medical experiment gone wrong, the figures are just plain creepy. Anyway, here’s ventriloquist Alan Stainer (and friend) of ‘The Gaieties’ from around 1910. It’s a photographic postcard from the Beatrice Kerr collection at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney. Although Kerr was a champion swimmer, she was also a vaudeville performer so that might explain why she would have such an item in her possession. I guess she didn’t mind the creepiness. Oh, and speaking of ventriloquists..don’t forget the Vent Haven Museum is dedicated to the stagecraft with over 700 scary figures staring back at you, plus thousands of photos, playbills and books. Sweet dreams, y’all!
Beatrice Kerr collection at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Sydney
