A Vampire Killing Kit in Orlando

I’ve talked a bit about vampire killing kits before on this blog. These enigmatic objects are the subjects of debate, and encountering one many years ago led me down the path of writing my book, Vampires of Lore. This time, I’d like to share a picture of one that can be found in Orlando, Florida.

Like the vampire killing kits I’ve seen in New York and Hollywood, the Orlando one is on display at a Ripley’s Believe It or Not! museum. The makeup of this kit is generally in line with the others. It consists of a wooden box that holds various vampire-hunting tools, including a cross, stake, pistol, and numerous vials. There is an interior label that explains the product and names Professor Ernst Blomberg as the maker. While there are some visual similarities between the kits, it’s clear that each one is a unique piece and they do not seem mass-produced.

I briefly touch on some of the controversy surrounding these kits in my book, Vampires of Lore: Traits and Modern Misconceptions. Although their origins are debatable, their allure doesn’t seem to be. I’m always ready to take a look at these intriguing objects and appreciate how they reflect the enduring popularity of the vampire.