The Poe Museum’s Cats

One thing I was delighted to find out when I first visited the Poe Museum in Richmond was the fact that 2 black cats live there. They were born right behind the Poe bust in the shrine. How perfect is that scenario? The mama and siblings have long gone to homes, but Edgar and Pluto live at the museum and greet visitors daily in the shop or in the Enchanted Garden. I have not been lucky enough to meet them but really hope to one day. Edgar Allan Poe had a beloved tortoiseshell cat named Catterina. Our family loves cats, and I love Poe so kismet.

From the Poe Museum Website:

“In honor of Poe’s love of cats, the Poe Museum cares for two delightful black felines named Edgar and Pluto—the latter named after the cat in Poe’s story “The Black Cat.”

In November 2012, the museum’s gardener found the tiny kittens in the Enchanted Garden, and the museum staff volunteered to care for them, seeing that they receive regular veterinary care, healthy food, and a warm room to call home. During business hours, Edgar and Pluto enjoy greeting the museum’s visitors in the gift shop and garden. They love to be petted, but we ask that you please not bring them treats because they are on a strict diet.”