Robert the Doll: A Genuine Horror or Merely a Child's Plaything?

In the late 19th century, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Otto settled into a stunning colonial Queen Anne-style home in Key West, Florida, accompanied by their three sons. Among them was young Robert Eugene Otto, whose closest companion was a peculiar 3-foot-tall, straw-stuffed doll, also named Robert.

The doll was a present from Gene's grandfather, who acquired the life-sized toy during a visit to Germany. Crafted by the Steiff Company, renowned for their iconic teddy bears, the doll was never part of a commercial toy line. It is believed to have originated as one of several clown and jester-themed dolls created for a storefront display.

At first glance, everything appears entirely ordinary and rational, doesn’t it? What sets Robert apart from any other doll are the supernatural occurrences that have followed him for over a century. We interviewed Jessica Schreckengost, the general manager of The Artist House in Key West, Florida, now a bed and breakfast, which once housed Robert the Doll.

The Story of Gene and Robert

Robert Eugene Otto, known as Gene, was by all appearances a typical boy, save for his peculiar bond with his doll, Robert.

Those who knew Gene were also familiar with Robert. The two were inseparable. Gene regarded Robert not as a mere toy but as a living companion and confidant. The iconic sailor suit Robert still wears today was originally Gene’s, handed down to his doll.

Tales from Gene’s childhood paint Robert as both a friend and a mischievous alter ego. Like many children, Gene often blamed his misdeeds on Robert. "Robert became Eugene’s scapegoat. 'I didn’t eat the candy—Robert did!'" explains Schreckengost. "Over time, his reputation for mischief grew, and the stories evolved. I believe there’s something unique about him. He demands respect, and those who fail to show it often face misfortune."

According to accounts, servants in the Otto household would hear Gene speaking in two different voices while alone in his room. On certain nights, Gene would wake up screaming. One particular evening, his parents rushed in, thinking he was having a nightmare, only to find the room in disarray, furniture overturned, and Gene huddled in fear. He pointed to the doll sitting on his bed, staring motionless by the time they arrived.

While most children outgrow their imaginary companions, Gene never did. Tales of Robert’s strange antics persisted even into his adult years. "Everyone had a toy or doll they imagined was alive at some point," Schreckengost remarks. "Robert’s story captivates because it’s a familiar tale that took an unexpected turn."

The Artist House

As time went on, Gene became a renowned artist in the region. He pursued studies at the Academy of Fine Arts in Chicago and the Art Students League in New York, later traveling to Europe to hone his skills. In Paris, he met Anne Parker, whom he married in 1930. While Robert didn’t serve as the ring bearer, he remained a constant presence in Gene’s life, much to Anne’s discomfort.

After his parents passed away, Gene inherited their Eaton Street home, which he named The Artist House. He continued his artistic endeavors there, living alongside Robert. Anne, a concert and jazz pianist, reportedly insisted the doll be confined to the attic, as his presence unsettled her. However, Robert didn’t appreciate being banished to the dusty loft.

Schreckengost recounts stories of passersby spotting the sun-bleached doll in Gene’s former bedroom window, even though Gene had supposedly locked him in the attic. Gene would investigate and find Robert seated in a rocking chair by the window. Despite repeatedly returning him to the attic, Robert would always reappear by the window.

In 1974, Myrtle Reuter purchased The Artist House following Gene’s death. She kept Robert for a while, but guests reported hearing footsteps and laughter from upstairs. Some even claimed his facial expressions changed. After six years, she moved out but retained Robert. They coexisted for two decades until she donated him to the Fort East Martello Museum in 1994, stating that he moved independently around her home and was haunted.

Life Continues for Robert at Fort East Martello Museum

Since 1994, Robert has called the museum home, no longer a child’s plaything but still known for his playful mischief. The East Martello Museum requests that visitors ask Robert’s permission before snapping photos; those who disregard this are said to face terrible luck. Schreckengost, despite her years at The Artist House, took a long time to visit the doll. When she finally did, it left a lasting impression. "I couldn’t bring myself to ask a doll for permission to take a photo. So, I didn’t. I used a digital camera, but after leaving, I discovered only the last few photos remained, and the camera stopped working entirely," she recalls.

Many are simply intrigued by the century-old doll. "I think there’s a certain charm to him," Schreckengost notes. "People feel a connection to him. He’s not malicious—more mischievous than anything else."

At The Artist House, Robert’s legacy lives on. Guests, including paranormal investigators, film crews, and devoted fans, come to spend a night in the infamous house. "People are captivated by the story. It’s intriguing, and they love the chance to stay in Robert’s room," says Schreckengost. "Even if we didn’t share the tale, it would still be famous. We’re a regular stop on the nightly ghost tours that highlight the property."

Unusual occurrences persist in the house, even for Schreckengost. "We had a brand-new computer that functioned perfectly for three months. Suddenly, while typing, the words started appearing backward," she recalls. "No matter what I tried—a new keyboard, mouse, or resetting the computer—nothing worked. The technician who came to inspect it was completely stumped."

Guests also encounter the paranormal, often documenting their experiences in the B&B’s guest book. "Visitors report odd happenings—nothing frightening, but things that defy explanation. I keep a logbook where guests can share their stories," Schreckengost explains.

Is Robert still playing tricks from a distance, as he did in the past? Or is he quietly searching for a cozy spot by a window? Speculation about Robert’s motives has inspired a 2015 horror film aptly named "Robert." This was followed by four sequels: "The Curse of Robert the Doll" in 2016, "The Toymaker" in 2017, "The Revenge of Robert the Doll" in 2018, and "Robert Reborn" in 2019.

For the Love of Robert

Even today, people across the country write letters to Robert. The museum reports he has received over a thousand personal notes. Some apologize for past disrespect, hoping to end the chaos he’s caused in their lives. Others simply wish to visit and greet the beloved doll. "I think he’s aged gracefully. His wear and tear add to his charm," Schreckengost remarks. "Robert seems to choose those he wants to connect with, forming a unique bond."