Discover How the 35th Society of American Magicians Convention Spelled Wonder in St. Louis

A Magical Gathering

The 35th annual convention of the Society of American Magicians took place in May 1963 at the historic Jefferson Hotel in St. Louis. Established in New York City back in 1902, this society first catered to professional magicians and had since broadened its reach to include many amateur performers. Among past presidents was the legendary Harry Houdini, who left a significant mark on the organization.

A Spellbinding Attendance

During this vibrant spring event, the city saw a remarkable assembly of around500 magicians. They gathered to showcase dazzling tricks, exchange performance tips, and even attend a wedding. A trip down memory lane is now available thanks to the digitized photographs from the Missouri Historical Society’s Sievers Studio Collection, which provides glimpses into this unique assemblage of talent.

Putting on a Show

While much of the convention remained exclusive to society members in order to safeguard secrets, the public was invited to a showcase on May 31. This aired an exciting variety of acts, featuring well-known illusionists. One standout was master illusionist Josef Smiley, famous for his engaging dog act with his furry friend Chumley, alongside the notable duo Bob and Ginny Lewis, who had previously graced the stages of The Ed Sullivan Show.

Performers in Action

Photographers captured a plethora of magical moments at the convention. Performances highlighted classic props like playing cards 和 stuffed bunnies, while some performers dared to entertain with fire, sabers, and even a guillotine, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. A particularly quirky act involved cats clad in boxing gloves. This eclectic mix of performances brought wonder and joy to all who attended.

Therapeutic Magic

Notably, magic held a place beyond entertainment in the 1960s. During this era, local magicians often performed for veterans and patients in healthcare facilities. Attendee Dr. George Mueller of Chicago shared his experience with a group called the Cauldron of Witch Doctors, where magic was seen as a “useful therapy” for those feeling low. His act of sealing his wife in a plastic bag only to rescue her afterward served to engage and uplift the older audience.

Magic for Change

Among other attendees was army chaplain Robert Anderson, who also performed handkerchief tricks aimed at demonstrating personal transformation. Tales from this gathering encourage reflections on how creativity can foster change and elevate spirits.

Love in the Magic

One of the most memorable events during the convention was St. Louis member Buddy Reeves tying the knot with his fiancée, Sue Campbell, under crossed magic wands. As W.E. Guetebier, secretary-treasurer of the host group, quipped, “This is a chance to watch a bachelor disappear.” He humorously acknowledged that Miss Campbell was not a magician herself, highlighting the humorous nuances of merging magic with life’s moments.

St. Louis’s Magic Week

The timing of this convention coincided with a bustling schedule for St. Louis, featuring other significant events such as meetings for the Amateur Fencers League of America, the American Academy of Dental Medicine, and the National Lithuanian Society of America. The Society of American Magicians convention was, however, the pièce de résistance. In recognition, Mayor Raymond Tucker proclaimed the week as Magic Week in St. Louis.

文化意义

Following the event, St. Louis would subsequently host the Society’s conventions on four more occasions, with the last one held in 2014, cementing its legacy in the magic community.

结论

Reflecting on this significant event in St. Louis history highlights the joy and community spirit found in shared passions like magic. Every enchanting moment captured at this gathering emphasizes that even with the finest reviews, there’s no comparison to firsthand experiences. For those keen to explore St. Louis or other destinations, booking a transfer via GetTransfer.com presents an ideal solution. Users can hire cars with drivers from verified providers at reasonable prices, ensuring convenience and personalized service.

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