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Johnson Victrola Museum: A Tribute to Sound Recording History
Discover the legacy of Eldridge Reeves Johnson and the Victor Talking Machine Company at this Dover museum celebrating sound recording history.
The Johnson Victrola Museum in Dover, Delaware, celebrates Eldridge Reeves Johnson, founder of the Victor Talking Machine Company. Explore the evolution of sound recording through exhibits of phonographs, recordings, and memorabilia in a charming, intimate setting.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to Johnson Victrola Museum
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Wednesday
9:30 am-4 pm
Thursday
9:30 am-4 pm
Friday
9:30 am-4 pm
Saturday
9:30 am-4 pm
Discover more about Johnson Victrola Museum
Step back in time at the Johnson Victrola Museum, a tribute to Eldridge Reeves Johnson, a Delaware native who revolutionized the sound-recording industry. Johnson, often considered not smart enough for college, became a machinist and eventually founded the Victor Talking Machine Company in 1901. The museum showcases his journey and the company's impact on the world.
Explore exhibits featuring a variety of phonographs, recordings, and memorabilia. See the evolution of sound technology and learn about the Victor Talking Machine Company's innovations. The museum also displays trademarks, objects, and paintings that highlight Johnson's successful business and the development of the sound-recording industry.
See the iconic image of Nipper, the mixed fox/bull terrier, listening to a phonograph, which became the international symbol for the Victor Talking Machine Company. The museum also features a replica of a 1920s record shop, offering a glimpse into the past. Visitors can even listen to some of the antique machines, experiencing the crackling sound of old records.
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Getting There
Walking
If you're in downtown Dover, the Johnson Victrola Museum is easily accessible on foot. From the Old State House, head south on State Street, then turn left onto S New Street. The museum is located at 375 S New St, about a 10-minute walk. This route allows you to enjoy the local shops and restaurants along the way.
Public Transport
Take the DART First State bus service to the Dover Transit Center. From there, walk south on S State Street, then turn right onto W Water Street. Follow W Water Street until it becomes S New Street. The museum will be on your left at 375 S New St. The walk is approximately 15 minutes. A single bus fare is $2, and a day pass is $4.20.
Car
From Route 1, take exit 104 for US-13 N toward Dover. Continue onto DE-1 N and take the exit toward DE-8 W. Merge onto DE-8 W and turn left onto S New St. The Johnson Victrola Museum will be on your right at 375 S New St. Free parking is available in the adjacent parking lot.
A brief summary to Johnson Victrola Museum
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