ROBERT THE DOLL

ORIGIN: Florida

The urban legend of Robert the Doll is one of the most unsettling tales in paranormal history. 

Originating in Key West, Florida, Robert is a life-sized doll made in the early 1900s. 

He was gifted to a young boy named Robert Eugene Otto, often called "Gene," by a Bahamian servant who was rumored to practice voodoo. 

What seemed like a harmless toy soon turned into a nightmare.

Gene became obsessed with the doll, treating it like a living companion.

However, strange things began to happen. 

Neighbors said they saw the doll move from window to window when the family was away. 

Gene's parents would hear giggling, and Gene often woke up screaming, saying that Robert had moved on his own and even attacked him. 

Objects were always found overturned, moved and shifted from their earlier position and footsteps were usually heard through the house.

Even in adulthood, Gene kept Robert close, giving him a special room. 

After Gene's death, the new homeowners began going through the same disturbing experiences. 

Visitors said the doll's expression always changed as though he were a living person, and those who insult him often suffer misfortune. 

Robert is now displayed in a glass case at the Fort East Martello Museum in Key West. 

Visitors to the museum are warned to ask permission from the doll before taking photos— those who don't end up facing a string of bad luck.