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When a Halloween Gag Meets an Artist/History Nerd

What Happens When A Halloween Gag Meets An Artist/History Nerd

History Bones

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Key West Love

Year 1927.  While working at the U.S. Marine Hospital in Key West, Florida, Count Carl Von Cosel  (real name: Carl Tanzler) fell in love with a beautiful 22-year old patient, Elena Hoyos.  She died soon after, but this didn't deter Tanzler.  He ended up stealing her body from her mausoleum and taking it to his home where he strung her bones together with wire and used wax and cloth to replace her rotting flesh. Tanzler dressed her, brought her presents, danced with her body and even installed a tube into Elena so he could have "relations" with her.  This went on for 7 years until he was found out and arrested.  Elena's body was reclaimed and buried in a hidden location.  Carl Tanzler somehow avoided jail time, but did fashion a life-size doll in Elena's likeness that he kept until his death.  His dead body was found still clutching the doll.

Insult to Injury Corner:  Because the trial was so sensational, Elena's body was publicly displayed before being released back to her family.  About 7,000 people came to see her. 

To purchase piece, click HERE

Key West Love

Year 1927.  While working at the U.S. Marine Hospital in Key West, Florida, Count Carl Von Cosel  (real name: Carl Tanzler) fell in love with a beautiful 22-year old patient, Elena Hoyos.  She died soon after, but this didn't deter Tanzler.  He ended up stealing her body from her mausoleum and taking it to his home where he strung her bones together with wire and used wax and cloth to replace her rotting flesh. Tanzler dressed her, brought her presents, danced with her body and even installed a tube into Elena so he could have "relations" with her.  This went on for 7 years until he was found out and arrested.  Elena's body was reclaimed and buried in a hidden location.  Carl Tanzler somehow avoided jail time, but did fashion a life-size doll in Elena's likeness that he kept until his death.  His dead body was found still clutching the doll.

Insult to Injury Corner:  Because the trial was so sensational, Elena's body was publicly displayed before being released back to her family.  About 7,000 people came to see her. 

To purchase piece, click HERE

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