Kazoo Factory, Museum & Gift Shop

Nothing is more Americana than a business that has been around since the early 1900s, and still uses the original machinery!
The Kazoo factory is a really fun place to check out. It’s a brief history lesson and a chotsky filled shop all rolled into one. Many unique gifts (and special edition kazoos) to go around.
Eden is a quaint little town, and the Kazoo factory was a nice stop before heading back to the city. The size of the store makes it a great place to visit in passing, but maybe not as a main destination. However, I’m sure kazoo enthusiast might disagree with me… they’re out there somewhere!

Is the Kazoo Factory worth the trip? You’re darn tootin’!
Nestled in lovely Eden, NY, this working museum details the history of the kazoo, and is actually located inside the ONLY functioning metal kazoo factory (established 1916) in the WORLD. They give tours, too (free!). Display cases contain several types of wooden kazoos, liquor bottle-​shaped kazoos that celebrated the end of prohibition, antique kazoo instruments, silver and gold kazoos, and on, and on. You can watch as new kazoos are crafted, and then make your own!
The kazoo is the most democratic of all instruments because everyone can play it – just pick it up, hum a bit, and bravo! you’re making music. While the factory’s machinery hasn’t changed with the exception of a few replacement parts, the Kazoo itself has evolved through the years. Although the kazoo is now considered as American as apple pie, it has African heritage. The first kazoo was widdled from a piece of wood and other designs and shapes followed, but every now kazoo here is made from metal and crafted by a local group of folks from suburban adult services.
The onsite gift shop offers a variety of kazoos (french horns, planes, corn cobs, trucks, etc) as well as a wide variety of other gift items. Last year, a friend bought me a pair of earrings here for my birthday that I never cease to receive compliments on. When I stopped in, I picked up some fabulous souvenirs and postcards of raucous kazoo parties that are sure to delight.