Wednesday, December 9, 2009

Vampires Beware: Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Owns the World’s Largest Collection of Authentic Vampire Killing Kits

Ripley’s Believe It or Not! has the world’s largest collection of authentic vampire killing kits. The kits were acquired by people in preparation of possibly meeting a vampire during their international travels to Eastern Europe and their usage dates back to the mid-1800s. Most were created in the Boston area and were available by mail order. They contain a variety of items designed to bring a vampire to its knees. Most contain a wooden stake, Bible, crucifix, pistol with lead bullets, gunpowder, garlic and glass vials that held various concoctions.

The kits were purchased by wealthy Americans headed to Eastern Europe – Transylvania then, Romania now. Travelers brought back terrifying tales of vampires with them from the region – well before Dracula was brought to life by Bram Stoker.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

I wonder if they own The Vampire Defense Kit "For Vampires Behaving Badly"? Too Cool!

Joan said...

I live and work in Boston. I would LOVE to get my hands on one of those kits!

Unknown said...

Try www.vampiredefensekit.com
"For Vampires Behaving Badly"

Joan said...

I meant one of the originals. I'm a history buff.