Deventer Toy Museum
Overijssel
Deventer Toy Museum, located in two late medieval merchant houses on the Brink in Deventer's historic city center, houses the largest public collection of toys in the Netherlands. Established in 1932, the museum's collection exceeds 14,000 objects, including approximately 2,000 trains and mechanical toys, 200 dollhouses dating from 1850 to present, around 350 dolls, and a diverse assortment of children's books, optical toys like stereoscopes and magic lanterns, construction toys, outdoor play items, and games. The museum offers visitors a unique experience, revealing how toys reflect cultural history, imagination, and human creativity. A notable highlight is the 1897 tin drawing clown automaton by German maker Phillip Vielmetter, capable of producing varied drawings of historical figures by turning a mechanism. After a period of uncertainty regarding its future, the museum underwent renovation and successfully reopened in 2021, continuing to attract thousands of visitors annually. It is also recognized as a Kidsproof Museum, emphasizing its family-friendly appeal and educational value.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during weekdays or outside school holiday periods to avoid crowds. Check the museum's official website for up-to-date information on temporary exhibitions and special activities. Advance ticket purchase is advisable for popular events or weekends. The museum offers family-friendly programs and occasional discounts for children and groups. Accessibility information and guided tours can be requested in advance.
Interesting facts
- •The museum holds over 14,000 objects, making it the largest public toy collection in the Netherlands.
- •Its collection includes the unique 1897 tin drawing clown automaton by Phillip Vielmetter, the only automaton in the museum.
- •The museum was recognized as a Kidsproof Museum in 2023 and again in 2024, emphasizing its suitability for children and families.
- •In 2023, the museum recorded a visitor number of 51,000, a record high for its attendance.
- •The museum is housed in two historic late medieval merchant houses, reflecting Deventer's Hanseatic past.
History
The Deventer Toy Museum was founded in 1932 initially as a children's room filled with toys in the building called De Drie Haringen.
In 1971, a Museum for Mechanical Toys was opened but closed in 1983, after which the toy collection moved to its current location on the Brink.
For many years, it was linked with the Historical Museum Deventer but became part of the Deventer Verhaal foundation in 2014.
The museum faced closure threats in 2019, leading to public protests and intervention by the Rembrandt Association.
Following these events, the museum was renovated and reopened in 2021, preserving its role as a major cultural institution in Deventer.
Place Guide
Tin Drawing Clown Automaton1897
A unique mechanical toy made in 1897 by German inventor Phillip Vielmetter. By turning a mechanism, the clown draws varied portraits of historical figures such as Napoleon, using interchangeable discs in its base.
Dollhouses Collection1850 - present
A comprehensive display of approximately 200 dollhouses dating from 1850 to the present, illustrating the evolution of children's play environments and craftsmanship.
Mechanical Toys and Trains
A large assortment of about 2,000 mechanical toys and trains that demonstrate the development of toy engineering and entertainment through the decades.
Contact
Phone: 0570 611 153
