Learn About an Unusual Side of History

The Dells is one of the most family oriented destinations in the United States. It is filled with water and theme parks, shows for children and their parents, quirky museums, and miniature golf courses. However, there is one location in the Dells that is not geared toward children, or adults who are squeamish or faint of heart. The Museum of Historic Torture Devices shows a side of history that may be unexpected to some. From technological displays showing the actual device to a the presentation of John Wayne Gacy's life, the museum features a variety of off-color, disturbing images that will be a thrill for macbre fans to view.

Displays include The Inquisitor's Chair, The Rack, Thumbscrews, The Cucking Stool for dunking, The Breaking Wheel, the Iron Gag, The Heretic's Fork, and The Dreaded Chinese Death Cage. Throughout history these tools have been used to inflict pain on people for deserved and undeserved reasons. Curiousity gets the better of many people strolling by the museum and they head in to view the history of torture. Information about the devices include their uses, as well as information about the governments, armies, and churches that utilized them as a means to an end. There are a total of 40 shocking items that will intrigue those interested in how justice has been historically achieved. The Cucking Stool is one of the museum's most popular attractions. This device was used around 1215 and the literal meaning of the term is "defecation chair.'' In some cases, the stool was used to dunk couples simultaneously. It was also a punishment device for dishonest brewers and bakers.

The museum features meter parking directly in front of the museum, but some are lucky enough to find free parking within a few blocks of the museum. Exhibits are described in both English and Spanish, and the museum is sometimes described as "intense.'' One of the most disturbing images includes information about the torture and burning of witches. Also shown are images from the Spanish Inquisition. Exhibits are featured from as far back as ancient times to modern day torture in 1973. The museum features mostly government sponsored torture making people realize how far some civilizations have come. Some actions used today that are considered torture by napve members of society stand in stark contrast to actual methods of torture used throughout history.

The museum is reasonably priced, but is unsuitable for families with young children. Some teen visitors will be interested in the displays, but check out the website ahead of time to ensure they will want to go. Adults may take awhile reading the information included with each exhibit, so trips may take awhile. It is a step away from the usual fun-loving frolic for which the Dells is known. If you have had your fill of waterparks, cheap attractions, and silly exhibits, try a few hours at the Museum of Historic Torture Devices. Following your visit, you may just appreciate your time in history a bit more than before.