An Innovator, Artistic Trailblazer, and Our Founder: Katherine Stubergh Keller “The Madame Tussauds of America”
In the captivating tapestry of wax’s extensive history, one name emerges as an indelible mark of artistic prowess - Katherine Stubergh Keller. A trailblazing American sculptor, Stubergh pioneered her way into the chronicles of wax history during the 20th century. Stubergh’s work resonates not only as a testament to her skill, but as a vivid reflection of an era. In the decades when flappers and Vaudeville were at their height, luminaries of the time sought the honor of sitting for her, contributing to a legacy that transcends mere sculptures. Her masterpieces grace the silver screen, finding a place of distinction in timeless Hollywood classics such as House of Wax, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, Gone with the Wind, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and many more. Join us as we embark on a journey through the life and legacy of Katherine Stubergh Keller, exploring the empire she built and her founding of The National Presidential Wax Museum in Keystone, South Dakota.
Early Life
Born on June 23, 1911, in the vibrant city of San Francisco, Katherine Stubergh Keller entered the world with creativity coursing through her veins. Descending from a lineage of skilled mannequin makers originating from Germany, she seemed destined for a life immersed in the arts. Despite harboring early aspirations of becoming a dancer, Stubergh’s innate talent for sculpting could not be ignored. The turning point arrived in 1925 when the Stubergh Manufacturing Company secured a contract from Grauman’s Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles to craft wax figures. It was here that Stubergh, recognizing her natural aptitude for the art form, embraced wax sculpting as more than a family legacy - it became her calling and a cornerstone of her extraordinary journey.
Crafting Lifelike Legacies
One cannot speak of Katherine Stubergh Keller without marveling at her ability to breathe life into her creations. Each wax figure tells a story - a narrative meticulously carved into the wax by Stubergh’s skilled hands. From historical icons including Albert Einstein and Amelia Earhart to cultural influencers such as Alfred Hitchcock and Ginger Rogers, her diverse portfolio reads like a time-traveling odyssey through decades of human history.
As Katherine’s artistry and renown blossomed, the demand for her wax figures soared, particularly within the burgeoning silver screen industry. Hollywood studios increasingly turned to these lifelike creations as stand-ins and extras, a trend that propelled Katherine to the forefront of her craft. In the heyday of Hollywood glamour, the luminaries of the A-list paraded through Katherine’s studio on Hollywood Boulevard, where she assessed their figures, conducting face and body measurements - the first step in the process of crafting a wax figure. Notably, the studio doors saw the likes of W.C. Fields and John Barrymore, who, fueled by Barrymore’s fascination, would occasionally visit Stubergh under the influence. Stubergh’s artistic touch also reached the realm of Vaudeville, where she collaborated with the iconic Mae West, sculpting her figure for the film I’m No Angel. Another cinematic legend, Charlie Chaplin, found himself immortalized in wax by Katherine for the film Charlie Chan in the Wax Museum. Stubergh’s celebrity connections extended to include names like Bela Lugosi, Mary Pickford, and Ginger Rogers - solidifying her status as one of the most sought-after artists in the golden age of Hollywood.
Katherine pictured with Charlie Chaplin
Katherine not only molded the likes of those in the entertainment industry, but she also associated with public figures of alternative influences. At the age of 17, Stubergh piqued the interest of Albert Einstein. Although neither party spoke each other’s language, they were able to get along just fine, and Katherine got to place sculpting probably the most prominent scientist of the 20th century under her belt. Before the famed aviator disappeared, Katherine was able to secure the life mask of Amelia Earhart, capturing a moment of history within her history.
Katherine pictured with John Barrymore
Molding Moments
Let’s take a glimpse into Katherine Stubergh Keller’s portfolio of timeless art.
As previously stated, Stubergh’s figures appeared in a plethora of Golden Age films. Her figures played integral roles in timeless classics such as Gone with the Wind, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, House of Wax, Charlie Chan and the Wax Museum, and The Frozen Ghost. However, her creativity extends beyond the silver screen, encompassing a diverse spectrum - from a physical wax rendition of Leonardo da Vinci’s The Last Supper to the inclusion of little wax infants subtly posing as extras on television screens.
The Founding and Lasting Impact of The Presidential Wax Museum
Following her retirement from Hollywood in 1970, Katherine Stubergh Keller sold Stubergh Studio to Ripley’s International. Katherine and her husband, Tom Keller, embarked on a journey to the picturesque town of Keystone, South Dakota. There, alongside accomplished set designers Don and Bonnie McPhee, they brought to life Katherine’s long-held dream: the Shrine to Democracy Wax Museum. This unique establishment was dedicated exclusively to the United States Presidency, a capstone to her illustrious career. The Kellers successfully ran the museum until the era of Ronald Reagan in the 1980s. The couple retired to Hawaii, leaving behind a legacy etched in wax and history.
In 1996, Katherine passed away; however, under new ownership, the once-known Shrine to Democracy Wax Museum transformed into the National Presidential Wax Museum, ensuring that Katherine’s dreams endured. Today, the museum continues to foster Katherine’s dream by consistently introducing captivating exhibits for every newly elected president. The evolution of the museum not only preserves Katherine’s original dream but also keeps the narrative alive and relevant - an unyielding tribute to the dynamic nature of the United States Presidency.
Watch History Come Back to Life!
Kick off your visit to the Black Hills here at the National Presidential Wax Museum! Join us on a captivating journey through American history! Our wax figures, most of them crafted by Katherine Stubergh Keller’s very own hands, bring the U.S. Presidents to life, offering an immersive experience like no other. From Washington to Biden, witness the evolution of leadership in stunning detail. March into history with us!
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