Hello! Thank you once again to come to and see the world of this skeptic sidekick. Are we? Dell del deal into one of the wonderful world of wizards, witches. things, and ha! All the wonderful things that you may ask. But we're never never wanted to. How was, how was the eclipse did you enjoy? Tell us? But with me today I'm starting to get off. Topic is my wonderful, sweet, kind, considerate. brave, clean, refrigerant sister of mine. Deborah Rodriguez.
Hey? How's it going.
Right!
Did you get to see the eclipse yesterday?
Yes, I did.
A.
Says avid.
I slept through it. I ended up having. I was like exhausted all day, so I took a nap. and from what I saw it was really cloudy out, but it kind of had a cool effect with, you know what you could see behind the clouds. So that was very interesting. And I've seen a lot of pictures of it online. Yeah. So I was talking with my coaches, she said, even looking cause you know how you're not supposed to look at the sun directly, or don't, you'll go blind.
Yep.
She. She was telling me that just looking at the photos her eyes were beginning to hurt, so I don't know if it was some kind of mental thing or what? But yeah.
Right.
Was quite a lot of interesting photos out there. So what's new with you this week?
Well, like, I said. I watch the the eclipse while listening to total eclipse of the heart.
There it is!
Bits. Yes.
you know that song was written for a vampire musical that was never completed.
Do you know it was written for by the same guy who wrote all the music for meat loaf.
Interesting. Yeah, if you've ever seen the video of totally clips of the heart. After finding out that it was written for a vampire musical, singing a song, for you know someone in love with a vampire. The video makes a lot more sense. I mean, before I knew that, I just thought, Oh, my gosh, this is a really trippy artsy video. But yeah. it really.
Turn around, bright eyes.
Yes, very interesting. But then, if you've seen her other video for holding out for a hero, it's also kind of on that artsy scale. Anyway, tonight.
And another another song, written by the same guy who does meet loves music.
Really.
Yeah.
I love meat loves music. He was truly. An artist.
Yes.
Well. Some of his songs were some of them like Paradise, for the dashboard lights.
Eee.
I mean, I mean, at least you get the imagery behind it. But so.
But we got off topic.
Yes, we're going to be.
Talking about. So a very very exciting Key West celebrity.
Yes, one that I've been intrigued by for quite a while. I would love to take a trip to Key West to check out. We.
So I just want I just want to go to Key West. Because you know. home of the Keith.
Oh, I thought it was the key home of the key line pie.
That, too. But I'm reading I mean again off topic. Let's talk about this wonderful celebrity that's you. You're such a big fan of.
Yes, we are talking tonight about Robert, the doll and it's quite an interesting story. If you haven't heard it, we invite you to sit back and and tune in and listen. If you have heard it, maybe you'll catch something that you weren't aware of about him. But I digress. Why don't you begin?
Robert the Dull. It's a famous and supposedly haunted doll that be become a part of Key West and also Florida's local folklore. The doll originally belonged to Robert Eugene Otto, an otter known for his eccentric behavior. The doll, which is said to be cursed, was reportedly given to Robert auto in 1,906 by a servant who was supposedly practicing black magic and voodoo.
Voodoo that voodoo that you do so.
Now. right now we are going to start calling him Eugene Otto. also known as Gene to his friends. because he was born in a wealthy family in Key West. His childhood was spent in the affluent environment of his family's Victorian style home. which would later be known as the artist house from a young age Eugene displayed a keen interest in the arts, showing a talent in painting and creativity.
Yes, historically, a lot sorry words hard. His early life was marked by a privileged upbringing. He attended private schools, and he lived in a community where his family was well respected. Now, despite his social standings, he was known to have a vivid imagination. He had an interest in the unusual. and these are traits that would, you know, define his personality and his career later in years it is notable that he was nurtured in an environment and encouraged his artistic, just sorry.
his artistic expression. Key West has a vibrant and culture scene. and it is picturesque with landscapes that provided a rich backdrop for his developing artists sensibilities. As a child Eugene was often seen with a sketchbook in hand he drew scenes from his surroundings. and he also created portraits of people in his life. recognizing his artistic potential his family did create. I'm sorry his family did support his creative pursuits from a young age. This did nurture
him. This did nurture him, allowing him to experiment with different forms of art, including painting, sculptures, and even writing. His early experiences with art, were not just limited to the traditional canvas, as he was known to use also the walls of his home. much to his family's dismay.
Much to his dismay, hey? Because the auto family social standing in Kuy West myth that Eugene group among the influential and currently aware individuals. The exposure to the diverse artistic, and social circles undoubtedly influence his artistic style and interest. His family, historical home became a gathering place for local artists, writers and intellectuals. providing Eugene with an early exposure to the broader artistic community.
Now the story of how Eugene Otto received Robert the doll is seeped in legend, and varies depending on the source. The most popular version of the story suggests that Robert was given to Eugene in 1904, by Bahram, servant working for his family. This said to have been cursed. Buy the doll with voodoo or black magic before giving it to sweet, innocent young Eugene.
Yes, according to folklore, the servant was skilled in black magic. She used these skills to imbue the doll with a malevolent life of its own. This is supposedly done as an act of revenge for mistreatment by the auto family. The doll was named Robert, which was also Eugene's given name. but he went by Jean and the doll took the name Robert. The Rate. The relationship between Eugene and the doll quickly became a topic of conversation. This was among those who knew the family.
as Eugene would normally speak to the dollar. and it was said that the doll would respond. His voice, heard by others through closed doors. The family also reported strange occurrences. like the doll moving from one place to another. or unsettling expressions appearing on its face. The stories have contributed to mystique and legend of Robert the Doll. making it a fascinating legend and a subject of paranormal interest. also a significant part of the Key West Local war.
Now area occurrences associated with Robert during Eugene Otto's childhood have contributed to the legendary status. People often reported hearing the dog giggle, and saw the expression change. Witnesses also claimed that Robert Position would shift inexplicitly when no one was in the room, suggesting he could have moved on his own. There are also accounts of Eugene blaming Robert for various mischief and accidents kind of like it was this little
imaginary friend. But if something was broken or disturbed, Eugene would say, Robert did it. This phrase became a recurring explanation for any household mishap. Further, and twinning the doll in a web of mystique and Blaine
Keep some.
Self out of trouble. Robert did it.
Sure he did. Now neighbors and friends also recounted stories of seeing Robert peering from different windows in the auto house when the family was away. This led to rumors that the doll was indeed alive and moving around the house. These unsettling events that surrounded Robert, the doll helped cement its reputation as a haunted object with these tails continuing to be cart of the lore surrounding Robert and the auto family.
Couldn't he have just taken the doll and set it there what before they left, like, maybe he was peering out the window with the doll and his mom's like, come on, Eugene, we gotta go. So he just left Robert there, and they left. I mean, nobody actually saw Robert moving the curtains and looking out himself. They just saw him there, so it's very possible he could have just been left there.
Yep.
Now, later in this life Eugene did Mary and Lauer. This was in the 19 thirties. Ann was a concert pianist. and she also came from a well-to-do family, but from Boston their marriage brought her into his autistic and somewhat eccentric world.
Yeah, there's a little detailed information regarding that their private life, including whether they had any children. the available historical records and accounts of the life together did not mention any offspring. Their marriage is often discussed in the context of Eugene's particular relationship with Robert. which was significant aspect of that life together, and reportedly caused tension in their relationship.
His relationship with his wife Ann and his doll Robert created a unique and complex dynamic in the household. This triangular relationship was marked by a blend of artistic temperaments. high society expectations. and the unsetting influences of Robert.
Yes, Eugene's devotion to Robert often did clash with Anne's sensibilities. She perceived the doll as being eerie and disruptive within their home. And not just a remnant of Gene's childhood. This led to a peculiar domestic situation, where Anne sought to diminish Rubber's presence. She advocated that Robert be kept in the attic. while Eugene insisted that the doll's active inclusion should be going on and continuing in their lives.
The dynamic, the dynamic in their relationship, was not just about the physical presence of Robert, but also a psychological impact that it had on the relationship. Eugene's interactions with the doll, such as treating it as a living entity that was capable of making decisions and having events added layers of complexity to their marital life. This included the atmosphere in their home and shaped their interactions with one another.
Now in this relationship Eugene's allegiance often was divided between Anne and Robert, with the doll embodying a constant if silent, participant in their life together. The unusual living arrangements and the tensions it created provide a glimpse into the unconventional nature of Eugene's adult life, and it's a during bond with his doll, named Robert. In later years Eugene's relationship with Robert remained as strong and peculiar as ever.
Even as an older man Eugene maintained a close and personal bond with Robert treating the doll not just as a cherished childhood toy, but a lifelong companion. This bond is reflected on how Eugene continued to involve Robert in daily life and artistic process, often placing the doll in a prominence where he could interact what with it, while he painted and worked in his studio.
Yes, Eugene's attachment to Robert was such that the doll was almost a constant presence in his life. This was to the extent sorry I keep getting Pop ups, and they're distracting me. But this is to the extent that it influenced his social interactions. And this also affected the way he was perceived in his own community. Everything okay. Over there.
Pause, real quick.
Okay. Locals and visitors alike were aware of using Eugene's eccentric behavior and stories of his peculiar relationship with Robert. continued to circulate throughout Key West, and this added folklore to the surrounding of the doll. Now, despite the passing of time. Eugene's affections and attention towards the doll did not waver. he would often attribute current occurrences
to the house. I'm sorry occurrences around the house to the doll's actions, maintaining the narrative of Robert's supernatural influence. that, you know, kind of like he did in his own youth, he would continue to say that. Oh, well, I didn't do that, Robert did that. So this, you know, relationship between Robert and Eugene suggested a deep psychological connection that persisted throughout his entire life. And this made Robert an integral part of his identity and his legacy.
Now, as Eugene grew older, the mystique of Robert. in the eyes of the public also grew with a doll becoming increasingly intertwined with Eugene's persona entails of a haunted auto home. This enduring bond between man and doll contributed to captivate the imagination of those who heard their story further. See me. I think the legacy of Robert Didal is a difficult place in in the life of Eugene. Eugene died in 1974, sorry to say.
after his death the fate of Robert became a new chapter in its sorted extension. Anna Eugene's wife reportedly moved Robert to the attic before she sold the artist's house and left Key West. She left after he he died. The doll remained there until it was discovered by the new homeowners.
Nothing scarier than finding a haunted doll in the attic of a new home. You just purchased.
Yes. discuss again, no bill.
Now the new owners did report strange occurrences similar to those that the auto family had previously reported. This contributed to Robert's growing legend as being a haunted doll. Eventually Robert, the doll, was donated to the East Martello Museum in Key West, where he has since been on display, so I guess they were like, you know, this doll's too much. We gotta get rid of it. Let's just go ahead and donate it. Let it be somebody else's problem.
Yeah. Oh, this is Robert Eugene Otto's doll. He was a significant person. Here, let's give it to the museum.
At the Museum. Robert did become a popular attraction, and drew this, and draws visitors from around the world who aren't, who are intrigued by his eerie backstory and also add legend, supernatural abilities. Visitors do often face difficulties with their cameras and electronic devices. Near Robert there are frequent reports of cameras ceasing to function or experiencing glitches when trying to capture images of the doll.
Some visitors find that their devices only malfunction in Robert's presence with photographers coming out. I'm sorry photographs, not the photographers, but there are photographs coming out blurred. or in some cases not being captured at all.
Now, despite being in a in close get glass case, Robert is said to exhibit it. Unexplained movements, museum guests and staffs had noticed instances where the doll appears to change positions, move its head. or facial expressions. Some even claim to hear the witness Robert tapping on the glass, as in trying to communicate or draw attention. A common experience shared by those who visit Robert is a sense of unease or sudden shift in the emotional state.
Reports of feeling watched or encountering cold spots near the door are frequent. Visitors are often described as heavy, our charged atmosphere around Robert. contributing to the feeling of a haunted presence. The museum receives numerous letters addressed to Robert. varying from apologies for disrespectfulness or request for the doll to undo perceived curses or bad luck.
Many visitors believe that disrespecting Robert, or taking his photograph without asking his permission, can lead to negative consequences. There is a widespread relief that Robert can curse individuals who do not show him the proper respect leading to a series of misfortunes. The superstition has led to the practice of asking Robert permission before taking any photographs, a ritual that many adhere to, or in order to avoid his alleged rap.
Have a question. How can they know if the permission is granted.
There has been some reports where Robert will actually nod. It said. I'm serious.
No, no, I believe you. I just you know that's very interesting. I wondered about that often. How do you know if he's saying yes or no. I guess that the picture comes out also.
Yeah, maybe.
Yes, the letters often do contain apologies for disrespect. you know. This could be like touching the glass. laughing at him. not taking him seriously. However, writers sometimes also describe a series of unfortunate events that described them. I'm sorry that befell them after their visit to the Museum attributing to these misfortunes. to Robert's displeasure. Again they do ask for the forgiveness to plead with the doll, to lift any curse or bad luck that believed to have been placed on them.
However. some story. I'm sorry some letters go beyond apologies. and actually ask Robert for assistance or blessings. This suggests that while some may fear him. others believe that he has the ability to just bet I'm sorry to bestow. Words are hard to bestow good luck or aid on them. These letters do often come from individuals who respect the doll's power and seek to be in his favor. So it's like almost a religious icon.
Maybe.
Good safe.
Yeah. The phenomenon of writing to Robert underscores a unique and cultural paranormal, significant heat that he holds. The practice reflects the blend of fear, respect, and fascination that Robert continues to inspire in those who encounter his story, or even visit him. Demonstrating this enduring plexity of the man man Mystique of the Key West folklore and beyond museum staff members have also recounted hearing eerie sounds, such as giggling, are changes in Robert's facial expression.
especially when the Museum is closed to the public. Furthermore, there are accounts of hearing roars at night. Do do but to the stuff flying that Robert has said to accompany him. These roars add an extract layer of mystery and intimidation to the legend of Robert. reinforcing the belief in his supernatural presence and power.
Now, skeptics generally view the phenomenon setup phenomenon do do. Surrounding Robert the doll with a critical eye. They attribute these stories and experiences to. Sorry I lost my screen. Me get back. Okay, there you are. Hi!
I learned.
I'm doing good.
Alright!
Okay, again, skeptics do generally view the phenomenon surrounding Robert the doll with a critical eye. They attribute these stories and experiences to psychological and social and environmental factors. Rather than just supernatural occurrences. They often point to the power of suggestion as a key factor. and the experiences that are reported by Robert, the doll. So say you go to, you know you go, and you see Robert, and then you poke fun at him.
I'm not saying you should just saying if you did. and you're driving home and you get a flat tire. Well, people would say, Well, if you wouldn't have made fun of Robert that tire wouldn't have gone flat. Yeah.
Or or you're try right trying to change that flat tire, and a car drives by you and just splashes the holy heck out of you.
Of water.
Yeah. Now you notice the fact, it was raining so that could happen.
But again you disrespected Robert. You got wet changing your flat tire. They also argue that eerie stories and legends that surround Robert, can. you know, start visitors to feel that fear, anxiety, or anticipation? This leads up to heightened emotional responses and a tendency to misinterpret ordinary occurrences as paranormal. So you're already hyped up by these stories. You go in and you see something out of the corner of your eye. Oh, well, it must be Robert.
even though it could be just a a reflection of a light, or somebody passing by, your mind automatically goes to Robert. Also, they do suggest that, you know there is a bias that plays into the role of perpetrating the legend. people that believe in Robert. Supernatural abilities are more likely to interpret any unusual event like, I said, into the evidence of it being the doll is haunted. This bias can lead to, you know, any a natural occurrences like I mentioned, such as you know.
reflection of somebody going by the technical malfunctions, your camera running out of batteries, all of these again attributing to Robert the doll. Well, now, it would be your phone dying because we don't have cameras really, except for on our phones anymore. But yeah, that all goes back to this idea that's already planted into our head, and not necessarily an actual haunting.
Now there is another thought of the skeptics might argue. is legend of Robert has grown and persisted, due to the value of the cultural, historical artifact. The story of the stall contributes to the local identity and tourism industry of Key West, making it a compelling tale to preserve and share, regardless of the factual base. Now. regarding the reported technical malfunctions and strange occurrences, skeptons often look for a rational explanation such as low batteries.
user error. I know a lot about that or environmental environmental factors that could interfere with electronical devices. They might also attribute words of reports of dolls, movement, or changes in expression to optical illusions, or the imaginary interpretations of the outlookers.
So, in conclusion. what are your thoughts about, Robert? The doll? Is it just this healthy situation? I'm sorry. Is it just a situation of a man child that has a healthy chat, an unhealthy attachment to a child's toy? Or is it the case of a haunted object that controlled this man's life. Was it the obsession with the doll that consumed the man and gave life to Robert? Let us know in the comments your thoughts on this and Richard, what do you think? Do you believe that, Robert, the doll?
It's actually a haunted doll that was cursed by this servant.
I would not shoot sure about that. you know, I did watch the when Zack had a visit for Robert and the Honda Museum. and his doorman had to apologize to Robert because he got startled.
Yes, our favorite ghost, hunter.
Yes. But then, again, like I said, it's Robert. it's an interesting subject, I mean, could it be a basically, what does? Scientists may so, and legends may say, is a Tula. and I'd like to discuss what a tool is possibly in the future.
Oh, my gosh! I was just thinking that the other day we definitely should cover that I was listening to a an interview with I want to say it was with Jack Osborn and Cindy Kayser. and they were talking about 2 lists, and I was like, this is something we need to cover on the podcast because it's such an interesting topic. Me personally, with getting back to Robert.
I think, being the believer that I am, I want to believe that it's haunted, because you know just that eeriness and how cool it would be. But then the rational side of my brain is like I'd have to see to believe it. So that would part of the reason why I would love to take a trip to Key West. And you know. See this stall myself to see if anything interesting occurs. But let us know again. Let us know in the comments what you think
and next episode. We will be taking a trip back. I know it's been a while, but we are going back, as we promise to the haunted old West. and we're going to look at some more stories there. So make sure you do tune in there for some more spooks and scares of a forgotten time in our past. And if you are listening on apple, podcast we do ask that you rate us, how many stars do we like.
Yeah. Stars. Rosenko.
Yes, as Oliver, the cat has pointed out, we like 5 stars, but we'll take whatever you can give us. and we do ask that you do review us if you can, whether it be on apple podcast Amazon, audible. We do read reviews on air, and we desperately need them. So please please rate and review us so that other people can find desks and anything else we need to share. For this week.
But everybody must have a very good day and remember unpleasant nightmares.
Sweet dreams, everybody! We'll see you next time, and.
Good night.