Since Hummel figurines were first sold in 1935, the line has attracted thousands of collectors around the world. Over the years, Hummel collectors have sought out the places where they can learn about Hummel history, watch the figurines being made, or see some of the rarest Hummel figurines ever produced. These are some of the places around the world where Hummel collectors can experience the history, art, and enchantment that make Hummel figurines so unique.

Stephen Hummel Museum

The Stephen Hummel Museum, known as the largest public collection of MI Hummel figurines, was founded by Donald E Stephens. He first began collecting Hummel figurines in the 1960s following a trip to Europe. The Museum, located in Rosemont, Illinois, opened in 1984. More than a thousand rare Hummel figurines can be viewed there. In the Gift Shop you'll find a variety of Hummels available for purchase, including the complete current line. In addition to M.I. Hummel figurines, the museum also holds a large collection of ANRI and Goebel figurines. Admission is free, but you must call ahead to schedule a viewing time. This is now the largest museum devoted to Hummel collectibles since the closing of the MI Hummel Museum in New Braunfels, Texas.

Hummel Club Convention

Another place of interest to Hummel collectors in North America is the Hummel Club Convention, an event which brings together thousands of Hummel collectors. Every two years it is held in a different city. Recent Hummel conventions have been held in Buffalo, New York and St. Paul, Minnesota. You must be a member of the M.I. Hummel Club to attend these conventions, where you'll get to meet other collectors and listen to Hummel figurine experts. In addition to the North American convention, many local chapters also hold their own conventions and informal meetings.

Convent of Siessen

Sister Hummel lived as a nun at the Convent of Siessen. Founded in 1259, the Convent of Siessen is located in the quiet countryside of southwestern Germany. In modern years, it has become a popular destination for Hummel collectors from around the world. The Convent holds daily prayer sessions and other religious services. Sister Hummel was buried at the Convent after she died in 1946; her gravesite is viewable there. Visitors to the Convent can view many of the drawings created by Sister Hummel. These drawings were the inspiration for the MI Hummel figurines. The Convent of Siessen receives a portion of the profits from each figurine sold. Occasionally, a special figurine is produced for sale only to visitors at the Convent.

Manufaktur Rodental factory

Until 2008, Hummel figurines were produced by Goebel. Today, they are made by Manufaktur Rodental; production still continues at the original factory once owned by Goebel. The Manufaktur Rodental factory in Rodental, Germany is home to a team of skilled artisans who ensure that MI Hummel figurines maintain the same artistic excellence that Hummel collectors have come to expect.

In Rodental, Hummel collectors can enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the company to see the production of Hummel figurines, which go through more than 700 separate steps during the design and manufacturing process. In addition to the factory itself, Hummel collectors can also visit the Manufaktur Rödental Information Center, where you'll find display rooms showcasing the history of Hummel, from the earliest designs through the latest introductions. Manufaktur Rödental is open for tours Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 5:00pm and Saturdays from 9:00am to 12:00pm. Factory tours take place only on Tuesdays, at 10:00am and at 2:00pm, at a cost of 5 euros. Pre-registration is advised, but not required.

MI Hummel Museum and Berta Hummel birthplace in Massing

Massing, Germany is the home of Berta Hummel's birthplace. The home where she was raised is now a museum devoted to sharing her life and art. The Hummel House has been in the Hummel family since 1875. Four generations of Hummel family members have lived there. Visit the MI Hummel Museum to learn more about Berta Hummel and her family.

The exhibitions in the Hummel House, which opened in 1994, include the largest private collection of Sister Hummel's works located anywhere in the world. Because of the size of the home, a fifth of the collection is on display at any one time, making this museum well worth a return visit to see more of Sister Hummel's creations. The home also contains original furnishings dating back to Berta Hummel's childhood and several photographs of the home as it looked when she lived there.

The MI Hummel Museum and Berta Hummel house is open Monday Through Saturday, 9:00am to 5:00pm, and on Sundays from 10:00am to 5:00pm. Admission is 4 Euros. Guided tours, by appointment only, are 30 Euros.