Harpers Ferry's Historic John Brown Wax Museum Closes After 61 Years
No. 7: John Brown Wax Museum closes after 61 years in Harpers Ferry
The Journal | Monday, December 30, 2024
By Eric Jones
The John Brown Wax Museum, a notable fixture in Harpers Ferry for over six decades, closed its doors on July 1 after 61 years of operation. Owned by Ted Staley since 2010, the museum featured lifelike wax figures created by Earl Dorfman, and held significant historical value as its building predates the 1859 Harpers Ferry raid. Ann Fern, an author associated with the museum, expressed community dismay at the closure, highlighting its importance to both personal and local history. Staley anticipates that the space will likely be converted into retail but hopes for some future iteration of the museum to continue honoring its heritage.