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Ernest Warther Museum

Born in 1885 to Swiss immigrant parents, Ernest “Mooney” Warther began his carving legacy at the age of 5. His focus was the evolution of the steam engine, sculpting engines spanning the time periods from late B.C. to the introduction of diesel engines in the mid-1900s.

Tour our gallery spaces with over 100 pieces in the collection and learn about the awe-inspiring life of Ernest Warther. Explore the Warther family residence, Swiss-styled gardens, historic “Calico Ditch,” 3 acre park, and Frieda Warther’s collection of over 73,000 buttons. Join us at the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens to experience the world that captures the depth and sincerity of an artist while simultaneously bringing to life the works in the collection and the spirit of the artist himself just as he lived.

• Open Sundays
• Handicap Accessible
• Family Friendly

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The Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens, located in Dover, Ohio is home to the World’s Master Carver. Experience the passionate and inspirational life of one of the most unique artists, Ernest “Mooney” Warther who hand-sculpted the evolution of the steam engine out of ebony, ivory, and walnut. We invite you to explore the home, studio, and works of an exceptional artist, genius, and inventor. Not to be outdone, his wife’s collection equally rivals his creations in works of art that contain over 73,000 buttons. Truly, this museum is one of a kind. Group tours available at any time with reservation. Our newly opened exclusive group event center hosts meals on site as well as workshops and hands-on activities for any age. For more information and reservations, please contact us.

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Warther Museum & Gardens

Admission to the Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens in Dover, Ohio, is approx. $20/person (less for students and seniors).

• Open: March through December. Guided tours are offered Thursday – Saturday, at 10am, 12 pm, and 2pm. Self-guided tours are available most days from 9am – 4:30pm.
• Location: ( Map It ) 331 Karl Ave. in Dover, Ohio
• Phone: 330-505-6003
• Web: click here

The Ernest Warther Museum and Gardens:  This world-class facility is a fitting tribute to Ernest “Mooney” Warther, the World’s Master Carver. Warther created a collection of steam locomotives carved of ebony and ivory appraised as priceless by the Smithsonian Institution. The carvings are displayed in a beautiful Swiss chalet with a new theater handcrafted solid curly maple. You will also experience new displays and the expanded knifemaking & woodshop. Freida Warther’s Button House is still a sight to see, and the Swiss gardens are magnificent in the summer.

The original Warther Carving Museum opened three generations ago and has blossomed into an attraction that draws visitors worldwide. The amazing Warther story is presented by knowledgeable guides and enhanced by films that include family photos and movies of Mooney carving in his shop. Some of the new displays show his traveling years, his love of reading, and commando knives made during World War II.

Dave Warther, Mooney’s son or grandson Mark, is usually in the lobby greeting visitors and carving souvenir wooden pliers for children. Mooney made the pliers famous by placing 10 interconnecting cuts into a wood block. Another grandson, Dale, makes handcrafted kitchen knives. You can observe the cutlery and knife blocks being created from the knife shop viewing area. The Warther gift shop is operated by Dave’s wife, Joanne, and his daughter Carol. It is the exclusive home of Warther Cutlery.

Excerpt from a past edition of OhioTraveler

When a guy is named Mooney, you expect something out of the ordinary.  Mooney Warther would not have been a disappointment. He was witty, funny, gifted, eccentric, ambitious, and entrepreneurial—genius would not adequately describe his stature.

Ernest “Mooney” Warther was a woodcarver extraordinaire.  Terms such as “world’s greatest” or “world’s best” are often used as fictitious hype, but when applied to Mooney’s aptitude with a knife, they are not an exaggeration.

Hearing such exalted claims to believe such talent is found only in some strange faraway venue is a quirk of human nature. In truth, one of the most skilled artists in history was born, grew up, and plied his trade—largely unnoticed—in our back yard: Dover, Ohio.

His father died when Mooney was three, and he acquired only a second-grade education that took him four years to complete.  Mooney didn’t have much time for school—he was working.  His cattle herding for a penny a day was the source of his name—an adulterated version of “moonay” from his Swiss heritage that means bull of the herd.

On one of his herding excursions in 1890 at the age of five, he found a pocketknife and began carving.  Mooney said it was a hobo who taught him to cut a pair of pliers from a solid block of wood.  It was a procedure he perfected and claimed as his signature. It is estimated that Mooney made and gave away 750,000 of the little wooden devices in his career.

By age fourteen, he worked in a steel mill but continually carved models of steam locomotives that had enthralled him since early childhood. At one point, however, he found time to carve a working model of the mill, including an animated figure of his old friend who liked to hide behind a furnace and steal a nip from his flask.

Mooney carved hardwoods like walnut and ebony and was dissatisfied with store-bought knives that wouldn’t hold an edge.  No doubt, aided by his experience at the mill, Mooney researched different types of steel and techniques of tempering and sharpening. He first made a kitchen knife for his mother. It was so good that word spread rapidly, and by 1923 Mooney left the mill and began making knives as a business.

It was the same year that the New York Central Railroad discovered his locomotive carvings. He was offered fifty thousand dollars, plus five thousand per year to stay with the display. Henry Ford made an even more generous offer, but Mooney declined both.  “My roof doesn’t leak, I’m not hungry, and my wife has all her buttons,” he said.  (His wife was a collector of buttons, which are displayed along with Mooney’s carvings.)

While Mooney designed his carving knives, he decided to see how far he could go with his pliers-making expertise.  He started with a large block and hewed one pair after another—all connected until he had a “tree” of pliers—511 that could be folded back, recreating the block from which they were fashioned.  It was an exercise in mental dexterity as well as carving skills. Engineering professors from what was then the Case Institute of Technology in Cleveland studied the sculpture and proclaimed it was impossible to have been produced in one piece. Yet undeniably, there it was.

As a young boy, I received one of Mooney’s pliers.  His bushy snow-white curls bounced as he talked non-stop in his high-pitched gravelly voice.  He held a four-inch rectangular piece of wood in one hand and, with the other, made a series of quick strokes with a short-bladed knife. He opened it in about five seconds, revealing handles hinged to jaws just like a pair of pliers. My eyes bulged in wonder as he handed it to me, the youngest in the family of viewers.

But the pliers rate only as a parlor trick compared with his train carvings.  They’re done in exact scale and authentic in minute detail.  Some of them have as many as 7,500 parts:  pipes, rivets, screws, connecting rods, perfectly round wheels—each created on a simple bench with a vise and Mooney’s carving knives.  Many are equipped with electric motors that turn all the moving parts, held by bearings he made from a Brazilian “oily” wood that never needs lubrication.  As well as wood, he used ivory for some almost microscopic pieces. Because of his love for elephants, his ivory carvings were mostly from old billiard balls.  Engineers have poured over his models with precision instruments and measuring devices, drawing the same conclusions as most nonprofessional observers: The replicas are so exact that they couldn’t have been carved by hand. But they were.

By the time railroads began phasing out steam engines; Mooney had carved 54 exact-scale counterparts of his favorite iron horses, but swore as long as he lived, he’d never carve a diesel locomotive.

Instead, he began a series of “Great Events in American Railroad History.”  He created a solid ivory rendition of the driving of the golden spike connecting the transcontinental railroad, the great locomotive chase, and the Lincoln funeral train. He was working on the Lady Baltimore locomotive when he died at eighty-seven, leaving it unfinished.

All of his work can be seen at the museum in Dover, displayed in a style worthy of the Smithsonian.

Mooney’s carvings are so notable as to make the cutlery business seem secondary, although since its inception, it has been a foundation of the family business. Mooney taught his sons and grandsons the art of making knives, and they continue to this day—everyone annealed and hand ground to Mooney’s specifications.

During the Big War, starting with a single request, Mooney made 1,100 personalized commando knives carried by every rank, including Generals. The Walthers have made special knives and kitchen cutlery for several presidents and dignitaries. Yet the most important contribution to the commercial success was allowing Mooney to pursue his true passion.

Like one bull in a herd—Mooney Warther had no peer.

By Robert Carpenter Robert Carpenter was born and raised in the New Philadelphia, Ohio area. He’s a freelance writer presently living in Florida.

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Warther Museum

Incredible vision, an immaculate eye for detail and great patience: Those are the attributes of Ernest “Mooney” Warther, master carver. Warther Museum, located at 331 Karl Avenue in Dover, is dedicated to the genius and perfection of Warther’s impeccable, unmatched carvings.

With guided tours taking guests throughout the displays of Warther’s priceless works of art, visitors can gain insight into how these awe-inspiring carvings were made. In addition, they will learn about the life of the many who brought these carving to life with his immense talent.

While Warther’s exquisite carvings are the big draw, there are many other fascinating avenues to explore at Warther Museum. The button house, featuring more than 73,000 buttons that were collected and mounted by Warther’s wife, Freida, the incredible gift shop and the lush, radiant gardens are sure to lift your spirits.

Warther Museum is the perfect destination for individuals, families or groups. Countless generations have toured the museum, exploring Warther’s detailed, mesmerizing carvings, which have been appraised as priceless works of art by the Smithsonian Institute.

Family-owned and operated, the museum is currently under the direction of Warther’s grand-daughter, Carol Warther-Moreland. Open seven days a week, Warther Musuem makes for the perfect destination on any tour of Ohio’s Amish Country.

Hours of operation are daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the final tour of each day beginning at 3:45 p.m.

Events and Articles from Warther Museum

Chuggin' along.

Mooney Warther’s passion for carving is the engine that drives steam evolution.

Warther Museum is one of the few museums in the world that captures the depth and sincerity of an artist while simultaneously bringing to life not just the intricate works in the collection but also the spirit of the artist Ernest Warther, himself. A must-see destination while visiting Ohio’s Amish Country!

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The Legacy of Master Carver Ernest Warther

Ernest Warther’s formal education ended in second grade, but his ability to make elaborate, hand-carved depictions of trains from the steam-locomotive era cemented him as a genius in his own right.

January 2020 BY Vince Guerrieri | Photos courtesy of the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

Henry Ford offered to buy Ernest Warther's train collection — and his works were displayed at Grand Central Terminal in New York City, at World's Fairs in Chicago and St. Louis and at department stores throughout the nation. (photo courtesy of the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens)

The Plier Tree was displayed at the 1933-34 Century of Progress World's Fair in Chicago. (photo courtesy of the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens)

Ernest Warther started the museum that celebrates his work in 1936, and it was last expanded in 2002. It features intricate carvings that trace the evolution of steam locomotives. (photo courtesy of the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens)

Today, Warther's museum lives on. It was added to in 1988 and 2002, and contains his railroad carvings, the Plier Tree (resting on a pedestal also carved by Warther and lacquered so it won't close again), Indian arrowheads and his model steel mill. (photo courtesy of the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens)

By then, Warther was deriving his income from the knives he made. Any money he earned from other sources fed his carving habit, says his granddaughter Carol Moreland, director of The Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens. He gave away some of his carvings (and when unsatisfied with some of his early works, turned them into kindling), but he never accepted a commission or sold any of his pieces. He didn’t think he needed to, once saying, “My roof don’t leak, my family’s not hungry and I don’t owe anybody.” In 1953, Warther finally finished his evolution of steam carvings. His 42nd and final project was the Union Pacific Big Boy, built a decade earlier and so big it couldn’t even navigate tracks in Ohio . By then, steam engines were being supplanted by diesel locomotives, which held no interest for the carver. He devoted more time to his museum, which opened its new building in 1963. By then, Warther had added carvings of the mill where he’d worked decades earlier. Warther needed another world to conquer, so he turned to ivory. But he made it a point to look for darker ivory, Moreland says, adding, “That meant the elephant died a natural death and it wasn’t poached.” Warther’s ivory carvings include an ornate model of Abraham Lincoln’s funeral train. He was working on the Ladie Baltimore train in 1971 when he had a stroke, which rendered him incapable of carving any more. Health problems beset him for the next three years, until his death on June 8, 1973, which was met with banner headlines in his hometown paper and coverage across the nation. Today, Warther’s museum lives on. It was added on to in 1988 and 2002, and contains his railroad carvings, the Plier Tree (resting on a pedestal also carved by Warther and lacquered so it won’t close again), Indian arrowheads and his model steel mill. The original museum building now holds more than 70,000 buttons, less than half of Frieda’s collection. In 1947, the Dover Chamber of Commerce honored Warther. Normally loquacious, the master carver was stunned to silence. The next day, he wrote down his thoughts, which were printed in the local newspaper. They summed up his life to that point — and really, his legacy since. “My spirit and ambition are as great as ever, and I long to carry on the work until I lay down my knife for the last time and leave behind a piece of work that will be admired by all the world.”   Call or visit website for museum hours and admission prices. 331 Karl Ave., Dover 44622, 330/505-6003, thewarthermuseum.com

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Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

Born in 1885 to Swiss immigrant parents, Ernest “Mooney” Warther began his carving legacy at the age of 5. At age 28, his focus was to capture the evolution of the steam engine, sculpting engines spanning the time periods from late B.C. to the introduction of diesel engines in the mid-1900s.

Tour our gallery spaces with over 100 pieces in the collection and learn about the awe-inspiring life of Ernest Warther. Explore the Warther family residence, Swiss-styled gardens, historic “Calico Ditch,” 3 acre park, and Frieda Warther’s collection of over 73,000 buttons. Join us at the Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens to experience the world that captures the depth and sincerity of an artist while simultaneously bringing to life the works in the collection and the spirit of the artist himself just as he lived.

• Wheelchair Accessible
• Motorcoach Parking

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Ernest warther museum 88th anniversary celebration.

Regional Attractions Ernest Warther Museum 331 Karl Ave Dover, Ohio 44622 (330) 505-6003 Website

Ernest Warther Museum 88th Anniversary Celebration 331 Karl Ave Dover, Ohio 44622

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Warther's Tree Festival 331 Karl Ave Dover, Ohio 44622

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Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

Review Highlights

“ It is worth ever minute you spend there to admire the sheer genuis of Mooney Warther (we didn't see Mrs. ” in 3 reviews

“ Recreated to engineering detail with all workable parts from ebony and ivory , his engines are miracles of vision and craft. ” in 4 reviews

“ The garden, trains, and button house are great to see too. ” in 2 reviews

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331 Karl Ave

Dover, OH 44622

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Experience the world that captures the depth and sincerity of an artist while simultaneously bringing to life the works in the collection and the spirit of the artist himself just as he lived. Tour our gallery spaces with over 100 pieces in the collection and learn about the awe-inspiring life of Ernest Warther. Tickets are available online or at the door. …

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What ime does tours start?how long does tour take?

The museum is open 9am to 5pm,seven days a week.Winter hours(Jan/Feb) are 10 am to 4pm,seven days a week.Plan on spending 2 hours touring and visiting the museum and the gift shop.If you want your knives sharpened,arrive before 4pm.

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I first visited the Warthern Museum over 30 years ago and have been back several times. Recently we had out-of-town relatives visiting and were looking for something to do. So, a trip to Amish country and then a side trip to the Warther Museum was the ticket. Earnest Warther was a master carver and he carved a wide array of amazing carvings - mostly of trains. The detail in his carvings is incredible. Warther was sel-taught and he actually made some of his own knives because he could not find what he needed in the stores. His craving and craftmanship is amazing. This is a MUST-SEE attraction in the Dover/New Philadelpha area. Allow at least 2 hours (longer if you have time) to thoroughly enjoy this museum.

See all photos from Jim H. for Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

My three year old and I enjoyed the tree festival, but I'll need to come back to fully appreciate the scope of the museum. Friendly staff. Easy parking. Beautifully done tree display for the holidays. There is so much that I don't know about this museum and the family and the artistic talent of Ernest Warther.

Valued by the Smithsonian Institution as "priceless", this is a must see destination for anybody with a love for carving, trains or history. It is hard to capture in mere words the incredible handiwork that makes this museum what it is. Hand carved steam locomotives such as you will not find anywhere else in the world are the focal point of this museum. Each hand carved locomotive is an exact, scale model of the real counterpart. Wheels move, pistons function and drive rods articulate. The detail on these models is exquisite. The Lincoln Funeral Train is breathtaking. Any arrowhead enthusiasts will be delighted to see the many hundreds that the original artist collected and hung in his workshop. The grounds themselves are beautiful and a great place to capture photographs of family and friends amidst the flowering trees and many manicured flower beds. The museum has a modest gift shop. Parking is ample and adequate. Admission is reasonable. Restrooms were sparkling clean. The staff was friendly and accommodating. When you are done here, head over to Sugar Creek and check out this carver's grandson's work. The David Warther Museum in Sugar Creek hosts the same talent in the medium of sailing ships.

See all photos from David W. for Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

I didn't go through the museum but I went to the Gift shopping and the knife store. We ended buying some stuff. The staff could not have been friendlier. I was very happy.

Thank goodness I visited! I have heard about this museum for years and never really had any interest in visiting. We were in the area and decided to stop. What a fascinating and motivated man. His wife Fieda was nonless admirable. Both said don't spend time,,, do something with it. They were both intent on leaving something that would outlast them. They had little money but much love, raising five children in a small little home Frieda also spent time on her gardens which were full of vegetables to feed her family until they grew up and she converted to flower beds full of beautiful color and variety. You can buy seeds from her original plants to this day. There is a small building, the old workshop, dedicated to displaying some of her button collections. She collected historic and I teresing buttons which she arranged artistically into beautiful creations. The main attraction here is Mooney Warthers carvings. So interesting and sheer genius to create. You have to visit and take the narrate dtour tonfly appreciate his extraordinary talent. Hailed to this day as the best carver in the world. His fascination was with steam engines. Recreated to engineering detail with all workable parts from ebony and ivory, his engines are miracles of vision and craft. All this from a man with hit a second grade education! Truly remarkable in all aspects. I highly recommend.

See all photos from Deb B. for Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

This is a must see. This is without question the coolest museum I have just stumbled upon from a sign on the side of the highway. I was amazed by his early works and then just utterly blown away by his later train pieces. Do yourself a favor and stop in and appreciate the time, passion, and skill Mooney had to create these. I was told his son also has a museum nearby but we weren't able to see it as well before it closed at 5:00

My family have been coming to the area for a few years now but had never made it to this museum before. I can say without a doubt it's become one of my favorite places on the area. The skill and craftsmanship that went into his models is beyond anything I could have imagined. I legitimately spent an enormous amount of time examine all the intricate details he carved into each piece. His genius is clearly displayed in each piece, from the incredible plier tree to the full ivory model of the train that set a 30 year lasting speed record. I'm beyond thrilled that this museum keeps his pieces in good condition and allows future generations to see the fruits of his labor and the kind of outgoing brilliant man he was. I will definitely come back at some point in the future.

See all photos from Kamron S. for Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

A group of nine of us visited the Warther Museum yesterday! I was there once when Mr. Warther was still Living and carving! Now he is gone, but what treasures he has left behind. There is a fantastic Museum display rooms of his prize carving! They will impact you with the skill and effort he spent carving each piece including some with moving motorized parts! He mostly used specific woods for his carvings. He also used ivory ( when legal) to carve beautiful white carvings including a full miniature train and Luther Beautiful pieces! He loved people And especially children! You have to visit the lady that did our tour walk was excellent in giving stories and details about all the pieces! She and a film describe how he got started as a child and continued his whole life! He actually worked a full time job to support his family! On the same property very sort walk, are the buttons house, Swiss-style gardens, knife Factory, Warther Home, And warther's workshop. There is very little walking and place to sit if needed! There is good parking in front of the Museum for a short walk! Also, there is ram walk from there secondary parking lot! There is plenty of parking a extended parking behind the location (round the block)! You deserved to see this and your kids will love seeing and hearing about the carvings and the man that did them! Our group of nine was trilled for the visit and tour!

This is a really nice museum to visit if you are in the area. The tour guides are very good. The story of 'Mooney' Warther is interesting. We spent about 90 minutes seeing all of the museum, which includes a short video in a very nice theater room.

Awesome. Amazing place. Planned on an hour visit and stayed for 4. Would have stayed longer if schedule permitted. Carvings are true works of art. Indescribable in the detail and workmanship. Tour guide Jean was very fun. Informative but fun without seeming to read from a script. Grounds are lovely. Flowers will be beautiful come summer. Can actually feel how the care this family had for one another and still has.

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Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens

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🕒 Opening hours

• Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

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🗣️ Ernest Warther Museum & Gardens: Reviews

Fantastic experience: Even though I grew up in nearby Stark County, I'd never visited the Warther Museum in Dover. We moved away decades ago, and recently returned with our 10 year old grandson to visit family in the area. One morning we had a few hours available and decided to visit the Warther Museum. What a remarkable family!! From their personal story and home, to the button house and the grounds that are still all kept so beautifully by the family it is a rare treasure that everyone should take an hour or two to stop in and spend a great morning or afternoon. Well worth the time! Our grandson couldn't wait to share the visit with his parents when we returned to Saint Louis!!

Fantastic experience: Such an incredible place with rich history. We had absolutely no idea there was anything more than a small gift shop here and we were shocked to walk around to the back and see how much the museum area had to offer. This place is far bigger than anyone might expect. Definitely a must see if you love history. Ernest Warther was an incredible man who was extremely talented with an incredible story.

Fantastic experience: I was born/raised in Dover, so I’ve had a few tours, events and such with the museum. However, coming back with my nine year old daughter and husband has given me a new appreciation of how awesome this place is. The museum isn’t anything fancy but what it is is nothing short of amazing. The family still runs it and we had the privilege of having a grandson in law give us a bit of a personal tour. We even met Mooney’s great granddaughter, who showed my daughter how to make the ‘famous’ pliers. She was in awe. It was lovely. We went in February, so the gardens were obviously not at their full glory, but I have been in when they are in bloom in the late spring/early summer and it is fabulous. The whole tour through the museum, the button house and the family house is worth the trip and admission price. Truly a gem and what a loving tribute to the world’s Master Carver.

Fantastic experience: Unfortunately, we arrived with about 30 minutes to walk around. I kind of wish we'd have been given a discount for that, but we paid full admission price. It was an incredible museum that I definitely would have spent more time in, if we could. The whole tour includes the old house, little button shed, and the big train museum. We rushed through the gift shop with several wonderful options and grabbed some quick gifts. I would return with my son!

Fantastic experience: Having been in the tourism business, I found this to be one of the most popular attractions for customers and family anywhere. Be sure to allow enough time to read all of the info provided and take the tour if available. The lecture on preservation is a bit boring.

Fantastic experience: This is the most amazing. It has been in everything they say it's really accurate. This man makes Einstein. Look like a Dutch. I highly recommend any anyone that can get to this museum should do so.

Fantastic experience: A must visit if you're in the area! The craftsmanship and uniqueness of warther's carvings will blow your mind, and his history is amazing.

Fantastic experience: This museum should be considered a world heritage site. It is the only one like it in the world. The carvings are unbelievable and a once in a lifetime experience. The tour guide was witty, knowledgeable and had a good sense of humor. The Smithsonian has classified this collection of world-class master carvings as 'priceless.' Must see!

Fantastic experience: Pictures don’t even tell the story! You need to come here for yourself and really experience the guided tour and the AMAZING pieces of art that have been made! Just WOW! Jenny did a tour when I was there and she did such a phenomenal job of sharing all the important details! You guys are awesome! Go and see this great place for yourself!

Fantastic experience: We were in the area visiting relatives and I'm always game to check out local art museums. Didn't know what to expect when we went, but wow what pleasant suprise. Definitely check this museum out if in the area. Our tour guide was superb, answered all our questions (which was a lot) and she was so informed about the art and the history of the artist. Warther's level of detail in his sculptures is beyond belief. Trains may not be most peoples favorite subject matter, but anyone who as an appreciation for art will definitely enjoy. Such a hidden gem in town and a must see. Also the garden and Mrs. Warthers button art were unbelievable as well. I will say the price per tour was a little higher than expected, but well worth the money in the end.

Fantastic experience: This museum is a gem. Ernest Warther was a genius. You must stop here and learn about this amazing man and see his incredible creations. Terry was a fantastic tour guide and my three little kids were fascinated and really enjoyed the museum, especially the trains. I highly recommend a visit!

Fantastic experience: Such an amazing person with an extraordinary talent. After learned about the man, he is one of a kind and I cannot see anybody doing what he did. He is a true genius in his skill. Well worth the admission price. He did the impossible possible and no one will do what he did

Fantastic experience: An absolute gem of a place that blew all of us away. We planned on stopping here on our way to tour some local wineries and wanted to spend an hour or so while waiting for them all to open. We ended up spending a lot more than an hour as we were absolutely captivated by the meticulous creations of both "Mooney" Warther and his wife. What an amazing place! Ernest, worked in a local steel mill and then made knives. He then started carving scale steam locomotives using wood and bone and later ivory. The museum shows off his works. Anyone who has an appreciation for steam locomotives and their history will want to spend time here. Anyone who has an appreciation for craftsmanship will want to spend time here as well. And if the trains are not enough, the button work that his wife did is almost as amazing - but there are significantly less works on display. I frequently found myself with my mouth literally hanging open as I realized the level of craftsmanship it took to make any of these models. Not only are they finely carved, but any piece that moved in real life, moves on the models. The museum guides tell you that Ernest invited railroad engineers to look over his completed models and tell him if they see any errors - and they could not find one thing out of place. The grounds are also nice to visit as well as the house that they lived in. I would recommend touring those before the actual museum as anything you do after the tour itself will feel like a letdown - and it's almost just as amazing.

Positive experience: This is a large complex with museum displays, shops, stores, it is easy to find but there are a confusing number of entries to the various displays. Warther knives are high quality and, to my mind, eyewateringly expensive. And everything for sale in and shop is pricey, as well as the $16 entry. Staff was in very short supply. So we wandered aimlessly for hours and no one said a word.

Fantastic experience: Small private family craft museum and knife shop featuring the fabulously intricate train carvings, tools and knives of the Warthers. Home tour is self-guided, museum tour on the hour, gift and knife shops on site.

Fantastic experience: Before coming here, I knew nothing about who Ernest “Mooney” Warther was. After leaving here, I was astonished at how a man with humble beginnings had combined the blue collar life with his huge imagination and made history. This museum should do something to your soul. The handmade creations in all of their detail by Warther are all stunning. To come here and see his works makes a for a nice visit. To leave here and be inspired to make the most of what God gave us makes it WORTH a visit. Pictures don’t do justice. Come check it out!

Fantastic experience: This was my second visit and it didn't disappoint. Both visits featured guides who knew Mr Warther as children so additional insights were provided. I will go again with folks we bring up from Tennessee. It amazes me each time about this man's genius and vision.

Fantastic experience: Like to learn about Ernest "Mooney" Warther and the ingenious way he used wood, seashells, ivory and other natural materials to create these masterpieces.

Fantastic experience: We really didn't know what to expect when we visited Mr. Warther's museum. Surprisingly though, we were completely overwhelmed by this man's carving talent. This is a museum not to be missed.

Fantastic experience: First visit was in 2010ish? 2nd visit to attend friends wedding 2021.10.09 Great place. Strongly recommended! Wish one day I will return w. my two kids. Dream will become true one day!

Fantastic experience: Ernest Warther museum is a wonderful place to visit. It was nice meeting a few of his family members and hearing the story of this incredibly talented man while viewing his creations. My husband and I were blown away by this man's talent and life.

Fantastic experience: My family has been here multiple times! We love coming back. And we love to bring friends who have never been. Such an amazing talent Mr Warther was! Outstanding work.

Fantastic experience: Beautifully put together museum and Gardens. The staff are very well informed about the life and intricacies of Warther. Only one question couldn't be answered (it was about the type of ship the safe lock from The ship safe came off of) all the staff is very sociable and pleasant, a genuine atmosphere. Grounds are well kept: very clean, no dust.

Fantastic experience: An amazing place that exhibits an amazing man's amazing life's work. Ernest Warther was one of those people that was totally unique with no equal, nor anyone that was or will be like him, ever. The incredible gift he had, truely will never be created again. It is an axiom that you have NEVER seen or witnessed anything like this. Ernest Warther was as singular as Mark Twain, George Washington Carver, Albert Einstein and/or Thomas Edison. There has never been anyone like him and it is a certainty there will never be anyone like him again. He is a true American icon. YOU MUST VISIT THIS MUSEUM.

Fantastic experience: We attended the Christmas Tree Festival at Warther's, and it was wonderful! All of the carvings are on display as well as many beautifully decorated Christmas trees. The trees are decorated by local businesses and the proceeds go to Cleveland Clinic. They have expanded and added on a beautiful gift shop in a separate building, that offers a huge selection of knives, cooking utensils, and ornate cutting boards! A must see if you're in the Dover area!

Fantastic experience: This was a gem! Well worth your time and money. Privately opperated by the Warther family. They continue to produce Warther carving knives that are highly sought after by wood craftsmen. The beautiful button collection was delightful. That would be worth the visit, but the carving museum takes the cake. There are two videos and a nice gift shop at the end. The tickets were reasonable. The photos are a small sampling of his models. Even the boiler's cylinders were hand carved. Such precision!

Fantastic experience: This artist was truly a master! He left behind impeccable trains and other carvings built to scale. The garden outside and extensive button collection were charming as well.A must see!

Fantastic experience: Oh My Goodness!!! What a wonderful place, we took the tour and it was very well conducted and the guide was very knowledgeable.

Fantastic experience: My 6year old grandson loved the gentleman who guided our tour. There were some souvenirs fairly priced for him to buy and take back home. This was our second time there.

Fantastic experience: Our Homeschool Group was completely knocked off feet learning about this man and his God-given gifts! An intelligent and passionate neighbor of Ernest "Mooney" Warther, Mr. Jack gave our group a very thorough guided tour. Thank you most kindly to him. This museum is surely a gem hidden in Ohio. Be sure to allow at least 3 hours to visit.

Fantastic experience: If you've never been here, you should definitely make time for it. The hand carved trains are just breathtaking. Mr. Warther had an unbelievable talent and his collection is truly a unique treasure like no other.

Fantastic experience: Yup, you simply HAVE to go here. The museum shows the finest carvings I have ever seen (and I've traveled throughout Europe). If you're in Dover, this is definitely worth a stop. Don't miss it!

Fantastic experience: This was an amazing collection of carving work to see. Absolute surprise from what I expected. The range of types of carved objects is incredible. I was fascinated by the his display of hand carved steam locomotives ranging from the very first to the very last and biggest of the locomotives. Worth the effort to visit.

Fantastic experience: This place is awesome. I took my family there and we loved. Everyone in my party enjoyed it. It would make a great spot for a wedding or simular gathering as it's quite picturesque. The grounds have a large garden and there is a Cabos and train engine for kids of all ages to explore. In side the museum one get to see a century of train engines as well as the history of Ohio finest knives. Worth going multiple times bring your friends. Enjoy the experience. I wish I had had my wedding reception here. If you are thinking of celebrating any life event please consider this place you won't be disappointed

Fantastic experience: We had a Great Time! They show a video in the beginning. We got into the last guided Tour. They asked that we wait to take photos at the end. The inside of Museum is Mainly all Train carvings in Ivory. We ran out of time and I did not get a chance to go back and take photos. We will go back and take photos of the carvings Next time.

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Travel to Dover, OH to tour Ernest Warthers Museum and Gardens and the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum!

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Ernest Warthers Museum and Gardens

Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum

Walnut Creek Cheese

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Travel to Dover, OH where you will meet your guide for the day at Ernest Warthers Museum and Gardens. There will be a guided tour of the museum. You will also be able to view the woodcarvings of steam engines created by Mooney Warther, which are priceless works of art. View Mrs. Warther’s button collection featuring over 70,000 buttons arranged in works of art! There is a knife and gift shop where the family creates the finest kitchen cutlery in the world! After your guided tour, and shopping, you will enjoy lunch in their banquet room. (L) Next you will go to the Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum, a living testament to the golden era of railroading. This unique museum not only houses incredible locomotives, railroad cars, tools, and machinery but also serves as an active roundhouse where restoration specialists work to preserve these pieces of history. This fascinating site features a fully operational 18-stall brick roundhouse and a 115-foot turntable. The Age of Steam Roundhouse Museum promises an unforgettable experience for railroad enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Your final stop of the day is Walnut Creek Cheese for all your shopping needs. This is the largest bulk food store in the area, and a great place to buy spices in bulk, fresh meats and cheese. They have an in-house bakery that specializes in cinnamon rolls. The Amish love to shop here for all their grocery needs!

Includes: Transportation, lunch, touring and admissions per itinerary, step-on guide, meal gratuity, and taxes.

Cancellation Policy: 30 days prior to departure – Full refund less any non-refundable charges (i.e. theater tickets, service fees, etc.) unless notification of difference is noted on the tour description.

NO REFUND after 29 days prior to departure.

Written notice of cancellation is required before monies are refunded.

Depart:  Monroeville    6:30 am

            Pittsburgh     7:00 am

            Sewickley     7:30 am

Return: Approximately 7:30-8:30 pm

Walking Code: 3   This tour includes moderate physical activity. The itinerary blends some longer days with shorter days and more leisure time. Walking tours, as well as walking slightly longer distances, up stairs or on uneven walking surfaces should be expected.

Travel Insurance is optional. To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 15 days from the time you make your initial trip deposit and for the prepaid non-refundable payments or deposits. If purchased, the insurance premium is refundable during the 15 day review period, unless you have filed a claim or departed on your trip. The insurance premium is non-refundable after the 15 day review period . To view/download the Policy, go to: http://policy.travelexinsurance.com/312A-1217 .

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There are so many reasons to plan a trip to the Warther Museum . With over 60 hand carved masterpieces made from ebony, ivory, and walnut, this one-of-a-kind museum is a must for art lovers. Read on to get to know this amazing museum a little better. Afterward, if you are looking for more ways to explore the region’s craftsmanship, download our free Amish Country Vacation Guide . It is full of recommendations on where to find antiques, pottery, Amish furniture, and more.

Your Guide to the Warther Museum & Gardens

The story behind the museum.

The Warther Museum was home to the master carpenter, Ernest “Mooney” Warther (1885-1973). He is one of the most influential master carvers in the world and is famous for his handcrafted masterpieces of ebony, ivory, and walnut. His most iconic designs include his detailed train carvings.

In 1963, Mooney’s son, David Warther, restored his father’s home and built the Warther Museum. Today, you will find countless displays and gardens dedicated in Ernest Warther’s honor. Whether you are an artist, a carver, or simply a collector, there is something at the Warther Museum for everyone.

What You’ll Find

The Ernest Warther’s carving collection is just the beginning of what you’ll find at the Warther Museum! In addition to 64 handcrafted carvings, there are also several unique displays that showcase all of the things that Warthers loved. Here, you will find an extensive button collection, a 5,500-piece arrowhead collection (collected by Warther and his loving wife, Frieda), lovely Swiss-style gardens, the original workshop, and the Warther family home.

Tips for Your Trip

• Purchase your tickets in advance by visiting the Warther Museum website. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.
• The Warther Museum hours are 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., seven days a week. However, the winter hours in January and February are 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., seven days a week.
• The Warther Museum is located one hour away from the White Oak Inn in Dover, OH.

Where to Stay

With plenty of shopping , outdoor recreation , and tours nearby, the White Oak Inn is only a short trip away from some of the best activity in Ohio’s Amish area. After a day of exploring the Warther Museum & Gardens, head back to our inn for a peaceful night in. Surrounded by 14 wooded acres in a secluded valley, our inn is the perfect place to relax and rest up for your next adventure. 

When you book a stay in any of our cozy accommodations, like the Redbud Room , you can always look forward to the best amenities, packages , and top-notch service. A hearty and home cooked breakfast is always included in your stay, and our onsite restaurant means that you’ll never need to worry about where to go for dinner. When you are ready to plan your next vacation, check our availability and book your stay! We can’t wait to host you at the White Oak Inn!

If you are looking for more unique museums like the Warther Museum, remember to download your free Amish Country Vacation Guide.

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Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

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