The Victrola Museum in Dover Reopens this Month

The Johnson Victrola Museum, founded in honor of the famous Delawarean and music entrepreneur, Eldrige Reeves Johnson, reopens this month following renovations to preserve the collection for future generations. Originally opened in 1967 by the Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs, the museum is home to a sprawling collection of victrolas and related memorabilia and remains a testament to Johnson’s entrepreneurial spirit and invention which secured Delaware’s place in American music history.

The reopening follows building-wide upgrades to several major systems including plumbing, electrical, heating, ventilation and air conditioning, some of which had not been upgraded in 20-25 years.  New LED lighting, to prevent the damaging effects of ultraviolet light, will preserve the machines and artifacts on display and make the exhibit space appear brighter, while conserving energy.  The renovation also resulted in a new wheelchair accessible restroom on the main floor.

The Historical and Cultural Affairs Collections Team who safely packed, removed and stored display items, carefully returned the exhibits which includes 61 Victrolas, over 100 sculptures and renderings of Nipper, an iconic dog whose penchant for leaning in and listening to music cemented his status as the enduring symbol of the Johnson Victrola company.  Other items visitors can view include historic advertising, a 5-foot-tall Nipper statue, and Eldridge Johnson’s posthumous Grammy award!

While many of the machines are not operational, several playable machines from different eras of the company’s history are returning so visitors can experience the evolution of play-at-home music firsthand. Many records, the majority produced and released by Victor, are also returning to the museum.

A second large project has also begun on the site, necessitating the closure of the parking lot. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has started a clean up of a Superfund site that is under the parking lot of the Johnson Victrola Museum. This work is expected to take at least two years. More information can be found at www.epa.gov/superfund/dovergaslight.

The Museum is slated to reopen in late October, with access from Bank Lane while the parking lot remains closed.  Museum parking will be available on the surrounding streets until the necessary EPA remediation work is completed.  Directional signage will be in place for the reopening.  Follow the museum on Facebook for updates as they become available.