There’s no question that Western New York and the Buffalo area have lots of fun things to do. Whether it’s exploring scenery or something more thrill-packed, you’re sure to find something new to see and do around here. One of the more unique options is a special museum that’s a bit under-the-radar. Head out to Eden to see what awaits you in this cool old factory.
The kazoo was invented in the 1840s by Alabama Vest.
bobistraveling / Flickr After drawing up the plans for the new and curious musical instrument, he had clockmaker Thaddeus Von Clegg get to work creating it. It wasn’t until 1852, that the duo demonstrated their kazoo creation at the Georgia State Fair. It quickly became a popular toy in the region.
It wasn’t until the early 1900s that the kazoo became commercially successful.
purpleslog / Flickr
Emil Sorg and Michael McIntyre created a method for large-scale manufacturing of the kazoo in the early 1900s.
coastermeister / TripAdvisor McIntyre began selling kazoos in 1914 and received a patent on the operation in 1923. He then created the Original American Kazoo Company which is still in operation today. Eventually, the Original American Kazoo Company became the only maker of metal kazoos in North America!
At the height of its business, the Original American Kazoo Company was churning out 1.5 million kazoos every year!
Linda44149 / TripAdvisor
While the company changed hands and production moved to the Hudson Valley, visitors are still welcome to come see the current Kazoo Factory, Museum & Boutique Gift Shop in Eden.
Off_Beaten_Tracker / TripAdvisor
Just about all of the original machines are here and still in use, allowing it to be a great (and rare) example of a fully operating industrial museum.
Off_Beaten_Tracker / TripAdvisor
Some of the displays show the step-by-step creation of the instrument.
coastermeister / TripAdvisor
And there are a number of specialty kazoos, including these kazoos made from liquor bottles celebrating the repeal of Prohibition!
nationalparkPa / TripAdvisor
Whether you’re a seasoned kazoo player or just someone who’s interested in the wacky side of American toy history, this is a lovely place to spend some time in western New York.
Linda44149 / TripAdvisor
And you might even find the inspiration to form your own kazoo band. If it happens anywhere, it’ll be here!
nysq1 / TripAdvisor
The Original American Kazoo Company Museum is located at 8703 S Main St. in Eden, NY, just 30 minutes south of Buffalo. They’re open on Monday – Thursday & Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The museum is closed for a much-needed rest on Sunday. Check out their website for more information.
bobistraveling / Flickr
After drawing up the plans for the new and curious musical instrument, he had clockmaker Thaddeus Von Clegg get to work creating it. It wasn’t until 1852, that the duo demonstrated their kazoo creation at the Georgia State Fair. It quickly became a popular toy in the region.
purpleslog / Flickr
coastermeister / TripAdvisor
McIntyre began selling kazoos in 1914 and received a patent on the operation in 1923. He then created the Original American Kazoo Company which is still in operation today. Eventually, the Original American Kazoo Company became the only maker of metal kazoos in North America!
Linda44149 / TripAdvisor
Off_Beaten_Tracker / TripAdvisor
nationalparkPa / TripAdvisor
nysq1 / TripAdvisor
For more informative fun, check out these 9 tours you can take in and around the Nickel City!
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