John Brown Wax Museum

Harpers Ferry


Not to be confused with the National Park–run museum, this private wax museum is a kitschy (and rather overpriced) attraction that pays tribute to the man who led an ill-conceived slave rebellion here. The exhibits are very old-school; nothing says historical accuracy like scratchy vocals, jerky animatronics and dusty old dioramas. But younger kids seem to dig it – maybe because some of the scenes are a bit horrifying.

Keep an eye out for the wax replica of museum's founder – he's tucked among the historic figures in one of the dioramas.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Harpers Ferry attractions

1. African American History Museum

0.05 MILES

Part of the national park, this worthwhile, interactive exhibit has narrated stories of hardships and hard-won victories by African Americans from the…

2. Storer College & Niagara Movement

0.06 MILES

Part of the national park, this small exhibit gives an overview of the groundbreaking educational center at Storer College and the Niagara movement that…

3. John Brown Museum

0.06 MILES

Across from Arsenal Sq and one of the park's museums, this three-room gallery gives a fine overview (through videos and period relics) of the events…

4. Master Armorer’s House

0.08 MILES

Among the free sites in the historic district, this 1858 house explains how rifle technology developed here went on to revolutionize the firearms industry…

5. The Point

0.14 MILES

At the southern end of Potomac St, just a few steps from the lower town, take in a view of three states – Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia – from the…

6. Jefferson Rock

0.14 MILES

A slab of rock marks the spot where the woods open up to a fine river vista. Known as Jefferson Rock, the formation is named for President Thomas…

7. Storer College Campus

0.54 MILES

Founded immediately after the Civil War, Storer College grew from a one-room schoolhouse for freed slaves to a respected college open to all races and…

8. Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

1.46 MILES

Historic buildings and museums are accessible to those with passes, which can be found, along with parking and shuttles, north of town at the Harpers…