Pages from m u m vol 8 10589

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MIGHT

MAGIC

THE SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS No. 63

ONE PER

DOLLAR ANNUM

NEW YORK, JUNE, 1918

MONTHLY

SINGLE COPIES TEN GENTS

Vol. 8

OUR FOURTEENTH ANNUAL DINNER The fourteenth Annual Dinner of the Society of American Magicians has "been" and "gone."

History will record it as one of the largest gatherings we have had at any of our banquets, over two hundred guests being present.

Our respects were paid to the American flag and our country, then "Always on the spot" Secretary Oscar Teale read the names of our members who have answered the call of the Mighty Magician. Miss Adele Abrams turning each plate reserved for their memory and laying thereon a white carnation for each departed brother. The ceremony was indeed a touching one, and upon reaching the name of Andrew G. Waring, his voice broke and his enunciation became almost inaudible. A weird incident occurred at this moment, the bells of a nearby cathedral chiming the hour.

Fashion, society and beauty graced the occasion.

Telegrams were read from Dean Harry Kellar, Dr. A. M. Wilson, A. B. Harrington, Jules Zancig and Nate Leipzig. Among the guests of honor was Captain Charles Dillingham, R. H. Burnside, Mr. and Mrs. Mark Luescher, Mme. Adelaide Herrmann, Mr. and Mrs. F. J. Martinka, Harry Raver and C. Haddon Chambers.

When introducing Mr. Dillingham of the New York Hippodrome, those present were agreeably surprised to hear Houdini say that the Captain was an expert magician, excelling in card sleights, in fact it would require a professional to overtake him. The president explained that the Society was greatly indebted to Mr. Dillingham, for only through his co-operation was it possible to obtain the Hippodrome for two historical events: First, the wonderful farewell night of our beloved Dean Harry Kellar, and the second, for the benefit of the hospital fund, in which we affiliated with the Showmen's League of America. The result of this benefit placed us in possession of funds sufficient to take care of our sick and otherwise deserving members.

Captain Dillingham in responding, with a smile, said: "Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen: It is indeed a great pleasure to be with you this evening. As for a speech, I wrote one, and about five minutes ago handed it to Mr. Burnside and he will read it bye and bye." The toastmaster then introduced Mr. Burnside, whom he said was

one of the hardest workers in the cause of charity, and who worked secretly, never wanting to be thanked, and when the event was over it was like a forgotten thought, and that the initials of the man, represented just what he was: R. H. B. "Real Human Being."

Mr. Burnside responded with a wonderful speech—which was undoubtedly the feature of the evening, taking advantage in a brilliant manner of the remarks of the previous speaker. He thanked Houdini for putting his picture on back of the program. This was the biggest laugh of the evening, for he referred to a reproduction of a cut drawn in 1635, used in a book, "Hocus Pokus," which is shown herewith, so that the reader may appreciate the quip.

R. H. BURNSIDE in 1635 From Houdini Collection

Mr. Luescher, through modesty, refrained from responding, and little Mrs. Luescher blushed, until Mark's refusal was accepted in lieu of a speech.

The entire assemblage arose and three mighty cheers were given to the Hippodrome representatives with such gusto that the roof of the McAlpin Hotel fairly quivered with emotion.

Harry Raver, president of the Showmen's League of America, spoke entertainingly in his own quiet manner, his words going straight to the hearts of all his listeners.

Mr. L. Abrams, Assistant District Attorney, asked for a standing toast to the President of the United States, and delivered his remarks as only

Fourteenth Annual Dinner — Society of American Magicians —

Hotel McAlpin, May 31, 1918

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

an experienced man of the world can. He was patriotic, and congratulated the S. A. M. upon its efficiency. He was proud to be with us and proud to pay homage to Captain Dillingham, R. H. Burnside and Mark Luescher. He stated that the theatrical profession was more than doing its bit.

He closed his address with: "God speed to our boys abroad—God bless us every one."

B. A. Rolfe, the celebrated moving picture producer, explained how the screen was used to produce old time magical stories, and that miracles could be performed with the camera, but nevertheless he could not tell how the stage magicians performed their illusions.

L. D. Beaumont informed the folks that he had arranged with Mr. Houdini that, if called upon for a speech he would give a short address, which he did literally, i. e., "157 West 57th St." was his address—and he sat down midst much laughter.

Mr. Grunberg of the American Magazine explained that he used magic as a lever to get his best interviews. His articles on the psycology of sleight-of-hand and mystery will be eagerly awaited.

C. Haddon Chambers, the well-known novelist, who is also a great deductionist when it comes to magical feats, said that he was not a mystifier, but one who enjoyed mystification and what mystified him most was why he was called upon.

He was excused with regret.

Francis J. Martinka, thanking everyone, said that he and his good wife had retired after supplying the magical fraternity with apparatus for thirty-five years. He was sorry to leave them all, but time demanded that he play a little before he became too old to enjoy life. Mrs. Martinka did not speak, but she nodded silent consent to her husband's remarks.

William J. Hilliar, the "Magic" Pageist of the Billboard, and founder of the Sphinx, who for many years Hanky Pankyed, and whose shadowgraphs, especially the comedy bits, have never been excelled, spoke a few words regarding Magic past and present, and in his scholarly manner impressed everyone who was present with his knowledge of necromancy and kindred arts.

Mme. Herrmann would not speak and asked to be excused. She was, although, handed a bouquet of roses by P. P. Van Dien, who tried to Trilby her to her feet but failed.

The entertainment was a feast of mystery, and though the hour was rather late, all were well repaid for remaining until the last number. Hardeen acted as Master of Ceremonies.

Prof. Otto Hornmann "thirty years in the Magic Business," appeared in an unusually comical conjuring act. His piece de resistance was the "Here she is and there she goes" umbrella trick. So far no one has claimed the one hundred dollars reward that "Otto" offers for the correct solution.

Wm. A. Ransom, with a melange of flag and turban problems, was well received, with two assistant volunteers from the audience, he proved

so bewildering that the male committee became so dazed he had to be helped to his seat and the Parisien beauty Mile. Suzanne Meril was speechlessly mystified.

Mrs. M. L. Lewis took charge of the stunned girl and from latest reports by Mr. L. D. Beaumont, she is progressing favorably. When questioned about the affair, Mr. Malcomb Summer refused to commit himself.

The original Julius Dresbach displayed unusual dexterity in manipulation of silk handkerchiefs, and his performance is a credit to the mystic art.

Professor Benzon, card trixster, entertained for fifteen minutes with all sort of card effects, his four-ace trick brought him hearty applause for his finishing effect.

Fred A. Eldred has a routine of parlor tricks that are matchless, his slate and dictionary trick being his feature. David Roth, he of the marvellous memory, made a great big hit with his stunts. His work is smooth, his patter timely and shows that he is a master of the art of memorization.

Our own reliable G. G. Laurens, as is his custom, presented an original problem, that is, he has taken an old friend and redressed him. In this he mystified the magicians, his version of the Nest of Boxes, though seen before by most of 'em never in the manner in which Mons. G. G. "shew hisn."

After borrowing four rings and a gold watch, a committee was called, Peterkin was one, Old Man Brown's son, Capt. Brown, was the second, and I, gentle reader, was the third seeker after wisdom.

The watch left the watch box noiselessly, shot painlessly right through the head of Committeeman Capt. Brown, the rings vanished like the days of our youth. A box, a la camel backed trunk, suspended on a tripod of expensive metal (brass), this box was opened and attention called to the fact that all boxes could be examined and that there were no spring locks, which upset all calculations of all nest of box workers.

The Honorable G. G. offered the boxes and a. sum of money to any one who could reproduce the experiment, he permitting the self same apparatus to be used. We report no one accepted our worthy Compeer's challenge.

Giving credit where it is due, must say, and being in a position to say so, that it is the peerless nest of boxes in the world today. A clean-cut experiment and only a man like G. G., who is an expert engineer, could have constructed the feat as presented. Our compliments.

Ebbs, the ventriloquist, with his two figures, was the surprise of the evening. Rightfully deserves the big hit he has made on the Big Time this season. His work is exceedingly clever; he "threw^' his voice into two figures that he had in a grip so cleverly that had Arthur Prince, Tom Edwards or Trovellp been in the audience they would have had to sit up and take notice.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

Trovollo, who, by the way, I worked with 25 years ago on the platform of Worth's Museum, Sixth Avenue, New York City, and whom I always considered one of the best knee figure workers that ever lived. In fact, it may be put on record that Trovollo, who was then known as Punch Theo, worked his two knee figures so adroitly and deceptively that when he would go out for lunch, I would secretly examine his figures to see if he did not have some fake in same.

'Tis true I was only eighteen years of age, perhaps it may have been my experience, but Trovollo has always been my ideal ventriloquist in working knee figures.

Segamore, originator of the walking figures, Noble, Blanck, Duncon or the great song writer ventriloquist Kennedy made their decided hits with novelty or mechanical bits.

Very few people remember African Dell, who came to Amrieca years ago and had to work on museum platforms. He had a complete minstrel show and was the first one to do the laughing negro in my time. He died forgotten and I have often wondered why his act was not a bigger success. It possessed all the qualifications of novelty.

It may have been that, as he could not leave the stage his act would "curtain quietly" as he had to be harnessed to his figures and was compelled to remain seated until curtain was down.

And last but not least, "Bobby," the only Handcuff King Dog in the world, a pupil of Houdini.

Bob is a bull terrier, a native of Club Row, London, England, who escapes from any handcuff, chain, or rope that may be fastened on or around him. Introduced by Houdini himself, first Bob discovered cards on the floor that had been selected by the audience, the faces were all downwards ; then a committee was called on the stage; he saw a pair of regulation handcuffs of smalldog size, locked around his front paws, slipping was impossible; Bob lay on the floor, managed to open one cuff, and waving the other paw in full view of the audience he waved it off his paw, and barked for applause. He was the "dog-gone" hit of the evening and wagged his wagger continuously apparently enjoying the performance better than the audience.

The dancing commenced, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Trepel showed us how youth will glide. At 3 A. M. the Annual Dinner passed away into history; may it always bring back pleasant memories to all those who were present.

HARRY HOUDINI.

BANQUET NOTES Dr. Lionel Homburger was one of the very busy men of the evening and is to be complimented on the perfect arrangement. Arnold De Biere performed a clever deception at his table, causing a cup of coffee (demi tasse size) to roll all over the table without spilling a drop. He picked it up, wished them all well and drank the coffee.

J. W. Sargent had a splendid table card, making use of a thrift saving stamp card, with the aid of an insert it was a serviceable name card.

The roll of honor, members serving their country was read, Secretary Teale called attention to the fact that we had with us Lieut. Blakesley, who gave up a lucrative M.D. practice in Kansas City, Mo., to serve the colors. Capt. Brown was also there, and three cheers was given our patriots as they stood to acknowledge the call.

Mr. and Mrs. Jack Trepel again walked off, rather danced off, with honors; this young couple are far more clever than many dancing couples who are on the stage today.

Just as we were all leaving Vocalist Francis J. Werner, at our earnest solicitation, performed his deceptive bill tearing trick, and under most difficult circumstances. His estimable spouse with watchful eye upon our favorite Werner, made him work slick and with success.

The lion of the evening during the dances was Prof. E. C. Taylor, bemedaled and bedecked with his diamond cross of glory and brilliancy. His eyes glittered when he related how it had been given to him for bravery in the wilds of Maine.

He has one ambition and that is to answer to the Kit Clarke article of gift show history, for haying been a gift showman himself he is in a position to reply and we await his material for future generation to ponder over.

Compeer Weber from that famed city of acrobats, Reading, Pa., donated a lot of photo buttons that were fought for, being real works of art.

MILTIADES III. DR. Hooker's Newest Problem.

Have you seen that little joker Who appears so mediocre, As he sits there on the table at his ease?

I mean that enigmatic, Hocus-pocusly erratic Little blighter that they call Miltiades.

I used to feel so certain That I could draw the curtain From any sort of thaumaturgic wheeze, But I don't mind confessing This thing has got me guessing, In fact, you've got my goat, Miltiades.

I see no way to spit you, For no rule seems to fit you; You defy the laws of nature as you please, And when I think I've got you, You throw me down, you mutt, you!

And then give me the laugh, Miltiades.

You chaps who are so clever, I suggest that you endeavor The secret of this little cuss to seize, And if you think it's hard work To solve the Doctor's card-work Just try your teeth on his Miltiades.

But when this life is ended And all secrets comprehended And made as plain to us as A B Cs We'll find how simple-minded We were to be so blinded By that brainless Teddy Bear, Miltiades.

May, 1918.

JOHN WILLIAM SARGENT.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

THE SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS. (Parent Assembly) Reported by P. P. Richard Van Dien.

Published Monthly by The Society of American On Saturday evening, June 1st, 1918, occurred Magician for its members—to Perpetuate Biography the 177th regular and 16th annual meeting of the Society, not at the Magical Palace, but at the of Magicians past and present.

Prices for advertising space with special discount to attractive club rooms of the Showmen's League of America, 817 Sixth Avenue, New York. members on application, As a large attendance was anticipated and as EOITED BY THE PRESIDENT HARRY HOUDINI the League had extended the courtesy of their Address all communications to— room, our own headquarters were deserted, the OSCAR S. TEALE, Secretary, first time in many years. The following members 240 Broadway, Nw York Ciyy. were present: M. 111. President Houdini; 111. VicePresidents Burrows and Laurens; 111. Treasurer Rullmann; 111. Secretary P. P. Teale; Sergeantsat-Arms Domitz and Vincent; 111. Past Presidents Sargent, Werner, Homburger and Van Dien; 111.

Compeers Martinka, Linnett, Blakesley, Roth, ORGANIZED — MAY 10. 1902 Hardeen, Crosby, Lee, Hornmann, McWilliams, INCORPORATED, APRII- 3, 1908 Kline, Lenz, Floyd, Marks, Taylor, Irving, Sepesy, Heller, Meyenberg, Goodwin, Jarrell and Mul©fitrwrs— 191B-1313 holland.

HARRY H O U D I N I , PRESIDENT (Palace Theatre) Minutes of 176th regular meeting read and apGEORGE W. H E L L E R . proved.

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT G. G. L A U R E N S .

Propositions for membership received from SECOND VICE PRESIDENT Lionel M. Jonas (now in France) ; Rolph Dixon LEO R U L L M A N N , TREASURER Lewis, Minneapolis, recommended by A. M. Wil1421 UNIVERSITY AVENUE, N. Y. CITY OSCAR S. T E A L E . SECRETARY son, M.D., and Oscar S. Teale; Patrick Kearny, 24O BROADWAY. N. Y. CITY N. Y. City, recommended by Leo Rullmann and WM. M. L I N N E T T , Oscar S. Teale; Laurie Ireland, Holloway, Minn.; ASSISTANT SECRETARY Isaac Twamley, Baltimore, recommended by Ar(Extwxcil thur D. Gans and Theo. Bamberg; L. B. Baumont, FIRST SATURDAY EVENING EACH HARRY HOUDINI MONTH AT MAGICAL PALACE. OSCAR S. TEALE N. Y., recommended by Harry Houdini and Oscar 4 9 3 SIXTH AVE.. N.Y. C. LEO RULLMANN C. FRED CROSBY S. Teale; Henri Clayton Wilbur, Kansas City, Mo., RICHARD VAN DIEN Affiliating Assemblies recommended by Harry Houdini and Oscar S. JOHN W. SARGENT G. 6. LAURENS Chartered and Franchised Teale. Referred to the Committee on Admissions.

LIONEL M. HOMBURGER, D.D.S. GOLDEN GATE ASSEMBLY N o . 11 A favorable report was received from the comW. W MCWILLIAMS Pending and in Process of mittee on the propositions of Kenneth W. Stevens, Development HARRY KLINE BUFFALO, N. Y. Adolph Gunzendorfer, C. Henry Sousa, Robert J. HARRY ROUCLERE ROCHESTER, N. Y. LIONEL M. HOMBURGER, D.D.S. Stull and H. E. Barone, the candidates being duly PITTSBURGH. PA. KANSAS CITY, MO. elected by a unanimous ballot.

(Bom. ntt Aimnastmt CINCINNATI, OHIO BALTIMORE. MO. IRVING WATSON Correspondence, with the exception of a comPHILADELPHIA, PA. OTTO HORNMANN munication from 111. F. E. Powell, was not read.

COLUMBUS, OHIO RICHARD VAN DIEN TOLEDO. OHIO Committee on Revision of constitution, by-laws BOSTON. MASS. DAYTON. QHIO and ritual reported through Chairman HomGUSTAVE A . DOMITZ PETER A. VINCENT burger—the matter now being in printer's hands and completed copies ready for distribution at REPRESENTATIVES the July meeting. Dinner Committee, through A. M. W I L S O N , M. o. 7 O 8 W A L D H E I M B-L-D'G. K A N S A S CITY. M O .

W. O. LEROY. 1O2 COURT STREET. BOSTON. M A S S , Chairman Homburger reported having had a paid F . w . BILG?R. 5OOO BROADWAY. O A K L A N D . r A L . attendance of 193, as against a smaller number WM. A. RUSSELL. 2 3 7 W E S T M A I N STREET, BATAVIA. N. Y. GEO. W. HELLER, (AT LARGE) 8 7 3 BROADWAY. N. Y. CITY last year, and probably a balance in the dinner L, C. ZELLENO. ESTERVILLE. IOWA D A V I O E. S T I F T . AT LARGE ' 2 4 O 1 S . GLRARD A V E . . fund, instead of the usual deficit. The committee MINNEAPOLIS, M I N N . was discharged with thanks.

OFFTCAL ORGAN I N AMERICA: T H E S P H I N X O F F I C A L ORGAN I N GREAT BRITON: T H E M A G A Z I N E O F M A G I C Pres. M. 111. Houdini made no formal annual report, but referred to the work accomplished 1

NEW MEMBERS. 555—Kenneth Webb Stevens. 557—Robert Judson Stull.

556—Henry E. Barone.

558—Adolph Gunzendorfer.

PROPOSITIONS) FOR MEMBERSHIP. Rolph Dixon Lewis, Minneapolis, recommended by A. M. Wilson, M.D., and Oscar S. Teale.

Patrick Kearny, New York City, recommended by Leo Rullmann and Oscar S. Teale.

Laurie Ireland, Holloway, Minn.

Isaac Twamley, Baltimore, recommended by Arthur D. Gans and Theo. Bamberg.

L. B. Baumont, New York, recommended by Harry Houdini and Oscar S. Teale.

Henri Clayton Wilbur, Kansas City, Mo., recommended

by Harry Houdini and Oscar S. Teale.

IMPORTANT MEETING OF PARENT ASSEMBLY JULY SIXTH - 8 P. M. 493—6th AVE.,

NEW YORK CITY

Every member should be in attendance.

As this is the Last Meeting until October.

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

to prove his earnest interest in the elevation of magic and increasing the power of the Society in its field of influence and helpfulness, and called attention to the startling fact that he had obtained for the S. A. M. in the year he had presided twice as much money as the Society had saved in the past 15 years of existence.

In response a rising vote of appreciation was ordered, with the battery of honor and three cheers. Vice-President Burrows occupied the chair during this ovation. Secretary Teale presented two reports (which will appear in the next issue of M. U. M.), after which he also was honored with the rising vote and battery, and three cheers.

Reports followed from Treasurer Rullmann, Committee on Audit, Council and Trustees.

An election for officers for the coming year was in charge of P. P. Homburger in the chair, with 111. P. P. Sargent and 111. Hardeen as tellers.

The result of unanimous voting was as follows: President, Harry Houdini; First Vice-President, G. W. Heller; Second Vice-President, G. G. Laurens; Treasurer, Leo Rullmann; Secretary, Oscar S. Teale; Trustee (3 years), H. J. Kline; Sergeants-at-Arms, G. A. Domitz and P. A. Vincent; Members of Council, L. M. Homburger, W. W. McWilliams, G. G. Laurens and C. F. Crosby.

M. 111. appointed W. W. McWilliams to look afte* the advertising in M. U. M.; as Committee on Admissions, Irving E. Watson, Otto Hornmann and Richard Van Dien.

Bills audited and ordered paid and a highly interesting meeting closed after midnight.

Receipts from all sources Disbursements (Vouchers 431-82)

$1,156.04 1,102.85

Balance on hand

53.19 LEO RULLMANN, Treasurer.

REPORT OF AUDITING COMMITTEE New York, May 25, 1918.

To The Society of American Magicians: We have this day examined the books of account of Secretary Oscar S. Teale and Treasurer Leo Rullman, for the fiscal year ended May 25, 1918, and find the same correctly cast and properly vouched.

C. Fred. Crosby F. F. Hill Auditing Committee, May 25, 1918.

REPORT OF TRUSTEES. We Have in our possession: 1 Liberty Bond for $1,000.00 1 Interest Coupon due January 17.50 1 Interest Coupon due June 15, 1918 17.50 1 Book for Excelsior Savings Bank No. 47483 with balance 1,013.71 Check for Hospital Fund for which no Bank acct. has been as yet opened 1,820.20 Full Amount $3,868.91 The other properties which were in Mr. Martinka's possession is not in our hands.

Respectfully submitted, LIONEL M. HOMBURGER, June 1st 1918.

Trustee.

STATISTICAL REPORT OF THE SECRETARY FOR YEAR ENDINS MAY 31ST. 1918 FINANCIAL. RECEIPTS.

By Admission Fees $137.50 Dues 710.81 Life Membership 75.00 Electro's and Pins 14.10 Houdini's Book 44.25 Banquet Surplus, 1917 12.00 Dr. Hooker for Cuts 11.50 Hoffman's Book 5.00 Collection Social Ent 6.00 M. IX. M. Subscription 2.00 DISBURSEMENTS.

PUT YOUR SURPLUS MONEY INTO

By Cash to Treasurer $1,020.88 Total $1,020.88 MEMBERSHIP. Total Active Members as reported May 31st, 1917 369 Admitted during he year now closing 29

WAR SAVING STAMPS

Decrease by death during the year William F. Schneider Dr. G. Wilhelm John Feroci Active Members to date Total Enrollment since Organization Shrinkage from all causes Total Active Membership to date

398 3

395 554 159

395 OSCAR S. TEALE, Secretary.

REPORT OF THE TREASURER FOR 1918.

Gentlemen: I have to report as follows:

OUR HONOR ROLL (Numbers represent membership card) MAJOR D R A P E R

Camp Dix

H. BROWN, Captain.

113—THEO. S. BLAKESLEY, M.D., Lieut.

315—FRANK B. BIGELOW, JR., Serg't.

547—DONALD GRAHAM PALMER, Serg't.

7—HAROLD

492—FAIRFAX CARTER BBRGER. 418—CHARLES HUOT. 485—RANDOLPH JOSEPH WAGNER. 554—KENNETH WEBB STEVENS. 483—M. F. CALDWELL. 524—ANTON CYPRA. 351—WILLIAM H. MOSLEY, JR.,

Steward, U. S. Naval Hospital.

464—RAYMOND GALATOVITS.

Commissary

SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT OF THE SECRETARY Embodying the Principal Events of The written and published records since October, 1916, bear witness to the fact that during his last tour through the States our Honorary Illustrious Houdini devoted much valuable time from his personal interests, including many of the large towns and principle cities and entertaining them at his own personal expense, to a tune of hundreds of dollars for the purpose of organizing Branch Societies and encouraging existing clubs to unite in AFFILIATION with the Parent Body in New York City.

This sacrifice was made for a purpose and with hope for concentrated co-operation in the betterment and uplift of the Magician's Art. Not only did he sacrifice much valuable time fro mhis personal interests, including many hours that should have been given over to much needed rest, and without stint, but he supplied meeting places at prominent hotels and hospitably entertained at special luncheons, employed stenographic typists, etc. However, it must go on record that all this self-sacrificial service has not been, appreciated by the very people for whom it was made, and though as yet the actual fruit of this labor is not apparent; the seed has been sown, and the success of this propaganda has not rotted in the soil, but to the contrary, Magic has received a BOOST, an impetus such as is destined to develop, as ultimate result, a more universal brotherhood and FRATERNAL, feeling among magicians.

It is impossible at this juncture to place a proper, intrinsic value on the moral support of one occupying such an exalted position, one of the foremost headliners in the Magic Arena; and time when, coupled with indefatigable efforts of the Special Committee in charge of Affiliating Assemblies, the Presiding Officer and the Secretary, aided by very generous support of our OFFICIAL ORGAN, the SPHINX, will yield the fruit of labor expended.

Equal Rights Established.

It is but a natural sequence to such a labor of love as had been performed by one of our HONORARY MEMBERS that at the ANNUAL MEETING, June 2nd, 1917, certain barriers were thrown down and EQUAL RIGHTS and PRIVILEGES as between HONORARY MEMBERS and ACTIVE MEMBERS established, and as a fitting tribute to his exertion for the up-lift of our art the HONORARY HOUDINI was unanimously elected to the Presidency of the Society of American Magicians, June 1st, 1917, recording the First Professional Performer of Prominence so honored.

July 7th, HOUDINI was INSTALLED in the PRESIDENTIAL CHAIR by the Senior Past President W. Golden Mortimer, M.D. July 21st, a Surprise Picnic was tendered Mr. and Mrs. Martinka, at the instigation of our President, at their summer home at Keansburg, N. J. A well attended, jolly time, and one long to be remembered by those whose good fortune it was to participate.

There was no Business Meetings during the months of August and September, the customary Vacation Season.

Battery Restricted.

October 6th, President Houdini called attention to the Battery Salute which he considered childish and uncalled for, therefore its use was curtailed and restricted to special occasions and special honor at the discretion of the presiding officer.

Secretary reported collection of money for dues, etc., from August 16th, 1916 to May 23rd, 1917, $423.15; and from May 23rd to October 6th, 1917, $535.65, making a total to that date of $961.88.

President Houdini reported that it was possible for him to arrange for a Gigantic Carnival of Magic at the Hippodrome, N. Y. City, and if accomplished, it would be the biggest magical feast recorded in the history of magic and magicians.

Appropriate CHARTER CERTIFICATES have been designed, printed and delivered, for AFFILIATING ASSEMBLIES. Record Publication of M. U. M. The M. U. M. has been published for TWELVE CONSECUTIVE MONTHS for the first time in its history, i e Five ISSUES of FOUR PAGES—Twenty Pages. Three ISUBS of EIGHT PAGES—Twenty-four Pages, and Four ISSUES of TWELVE PAGES—Forty-eight Pages, making

the Year—June 1817 - June 1918 a total of NINETY-TWO PAGES during the year, as against 44 pages published during the year preceding.

Many letters have been received commenting in very complimentary manner on the historic value of the data published, including letters from the CONGRESSIONAL LIBRARY at WASHINGTON, D. C, in which institution a complete file of M. U. M.s' has been placed by your secretary by co-operation of members. A similar file is on record at the New York Library, 5th Ave. and 42nd St. I regret inability at this moment to give comparative cost of publication of M. U. M. (because of pressure of other matters) between the year just closing and the year preceding. However, it might suffice to report that the price per issue of 4 pages has been reduced from $21.00 per issue to $13.00. Also that the excess in cost, if any, for the double size and three-fold issues of M. U. M. has been met in part by liberal contributions from our president, a reimbursement by The Showmen's League combination benefit, to cover a special issue abnormal in size and number, and correspondingly elaborate in composition and general "make-up," and the advertisements.

Also many of the engravings used have been loaned from the Historical Storehouse of Magic, belonging to our president. Many special cuts have been paid for by him, and Dr. Samuel C. Hooker, personally, paid for the cuts which illustrated his card effects.

Liberty Bonds.

ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS of our surplus (Building Fund) has been invested in LIBERTY BONDS, by unanimous consent of your Council. These Bonds are now held in trust by your Trustees. When our Dean Harry Kellar was consulted by your secretary as to the propriety and wisdom of the S. A. M. performing such a patriotic duty, he spontaneously endorsed the action and instructed your secretary to say that at any time the S. A. M. had need of converting the Bonds into ready cash, that he personally stands ready to take them off our hands at par value with accrued interest.

Madame Adelaide Herrman presented the S. A. M. with a Gold Mounted Wand that had been used by her husband, the late Alexander Herrman, and privileged the Society to dispose of it to best advantage and place the proceeds in the Building Fund.

(Magical Carnival.

November 11th, 1917, a Grand Carnival of Magic was held at the Hippodrome, in New York City, the largest play-house in the world. The affair was conceived, projected and managed by our President Houdini, who permitted the Junior Patriots of America, Mrs. Oliver Harriman, President, assisted by Miss Elizabeth Marbury and Miss Elsa Maxwell as directors, who assumed Financial Management, to participate. The affair took the form of a Testimonial to relieve the families of the men whose lives were sacrificed by the sinking of the Transport "Antilles." , An incident of the event was the unprecedented obtaining of permission from Municipal Police authorities (through the instrumentality of Miss Maxwell), for a Street Exhibition on Broadway at 42nd Street, so Houdini could draw a crowd by his Strait-jacket act, that the ladies of S. A. M. might have opportunity to sell tickets on the street and incidentally to give publicity to the prospective Carnival. Miss Maxwell was rewarded by the S. A. M. for the overcoming of police interference by receiving a Gold Medal bearing the Society's insignia.

Keller's Farewell.

The most conspicuous feature of the Stage Program of that great event at the Hippodrome was a Farewell ceremony, a floral tribute to our Dean. It was indeed a most thrillingly impressive occasion; an overwhelming of heart-throbs of American Magicians to do honor to America's greatest living Magician on retirement from his Farewell public performance on the largest stage in the world.

The event was conceived, arranged and staged by our President Houdini and was a surprise to all. It gives your secretary great pleasure to be privileged to thus place on record the fact that the total expense of thin wonderful floral demonstration was borne by our Presiprotest made in open meeting of the S. A. M., claimed

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SOCIETY OF AMERICAN MAGICIANS MONTHLY

dent Houdini, who notwithstanding, and in the face of the privilege of doing himself the honor of honoring our beloved Dean in the name of The Society of American Magicians, and when you are informed that a large wagonload of flowers was dispensed, a slight estimate of their cost might be conjectured.

A full report of this Farewell was published in M. XJ. M. for November, 1917.

January 5th, Dr. Samuel C. Hooker, Life Member, extended invitation through, your secretary to members of this Society to witness his marvelous creation in Card Effects, at his private theatre in Brooklyn, N. Y. The LADIES' NIGHT, January 5th, was a memorable occasion, comprising the usual stage performance under guidance of Illustrious Hal Merton.

The presentation of the Gold Medal to Miss Maxwell and an exceedingly agreeable innovation in the form of a very sumptuous repast of substantial and luxuriously palatable viands such as the ladies of S. A. M. are so fully qualified to prepare and having prepared with their own hands, to serve by continued effort, by medium of the same hands.

The home-made goodies were vivid reminders of that memorable day in July at Keansburg, where the same ladies rendered a similar service. The names of Mrs. Houdini, G. G. Weiss Houdini, Mrs. Werner, Mrs. Rullman, and Mrs. Sargent to the S. A. M. are synonymous with a bill of fare such as is impossible at the CLARIDGE, ASTOR, or other hostelry of the perhaps "seclusive set."

And though the FIRST—we sincerely trust it may not be the last of such hospitality on the part of OUR LADIES. Magical Theatre Project.

An event that should at this particular time engross the serious consideration and attention of all members of The Society of American Magicians is a permanent place of abode, a HOME for the S. A. M., and to that end a project has been exploited and discussed at some length in open session of the Parent Assembly, also in the Council, for a Magical Theatre, a Temple of Mystery in which suitable Club Rooms may be provided, properly furnished and equipped for our special needs and comfort, as well as for the business needs of the Society. The project was favorably entertained but unfortunately temporarily interrupted by unexpected contingencies and pressure of weighty matters demanding attention.

However, the scheme is still very much alive and financial backing is available and ready to co-operate in the consumation of desired results.

Hospital Benefit.

Our President Houdini was paid a high complimentary distinction and incidentally, a like complimentary honor bestowed on The Society of American Magicians, when The New York Branch of The Showmen's League of America decorated our president with Honorary Membership— a distinction possessing the uniqueness of individuality (there are no other Honorary Members in that Society).

And simultaneously an opportunity was accorded for a possible joint entertainment between The Showmen's League and The Society of American Magicians for the purpose of providing a nucleous for the establishment and maintainance of a Hospital Fund to the advantage and well-being of members of both organizations. Our president was made Chairman of an Executive Committee and he began forthwith to formulate plans with understanding that the privileges and benefit to the two organizations should be mutual, i. e., share and share alike,—a 50-50 busines proposition. And it was a happy occurrence for all concerned and one which put the Society of American Magicians, by the prestige of its president, in the lead for one of the greatest assets any society might desire, a possibility to aid such as may be stricken and afflicted, in a time of need. With receipt of your CARD of MEMBERSHIP for the coming year, 1919, EACH MEMBER IN GOOD STANDING will, immediately become privileged to avail himself of this most fraternal provision. This provision is not established as a charity, but rather as an emolument of goodfellowship and Fraternal Brotherhood.

The S. A. M. is to be congratulated in its good fortune in having a man at its head not only capable but willing to assume such grave responsibility as have been involved in this undertaking. No other man could have performed this service but HOUDINI. No other man could have made such sacrifice for so noble a cause, and the expression made by himself at the time of handing a check for $1,800.00 over to the Trustees—"Well! I have not lived

in vain" was but a reflex of the great joy he experienced in doing a service beneficial to others.

Not only did Houdini obtain use of the New York Hippodrome (without his aid an impossibility for the S. A. M.), but he obtained all the talent which included some of the biggest head-liners in the show business, who volunteered their services for such a noble cause. As Master of Ceremonies he conducted the big event, managed the stage, did his own turn by presenting his own act and also by filling in as seemed necessary or desirable.

No one is more capable of knowing the extent of sacrifice made in the ardeous labor performed by our president than is your secretary, having acted as "aid-de-camp," so to speak, he was in constant touch and consultation, at the Hippodrome, in the dressing-room between acts, and by constant 'phone contact several times a day; neither is there one more qualified with information to realize the outlay of money as well as the amount of publicity gained for the S. A. M., for it is safe to say that the Society of American Magicians has gained more publicity and prestige during the year past than in its 15 years of previous existence.

The detail work for both your president and the secretary has been abnormal to a degree; much more than can be realized perhaps—nevertheless, it has been regarded by your secretary, a proud distinction to be so closely allied with one so capable of producing such unprecedented and otherwise impossible accomplishments, and therefore he feels justified in accepting credit bestowed by President Houdini when he wrote he was "Proud to put in on record that President Houdini makes the statement that the secretary's efforts had been of the greatest assistance to him, always being Johnny on the spot."

The secretary was also honored with Chairmanship of the Ticket Committee for the Great Entertainment as representing the S. A. M. and thus commissioned to greater responsibility.

Hospital Fund.

The performance was held April 21st, 1918, and resulted in a net return to the S. A. M. of $1,800.00 plus $350.12 expense account. $72,000.00 worth of Liberty Bonds were sold at this entertainment.

Our president may be called to the Front by Government authority, to entertain the Boy's in Camp in the vicinity of Paris, France. He has responded to very numerous calls for similar service in this immediate vicinity, and as a direct result of public demonstrations and appeals to the public our president has been instrumental in selling over a MILLION DOLLARS' worth of Bonds for Uncle Sam. Many of our members are 'doing their bit," entertaining for the Red Cross, at camps, cantonments and special gatherings. Some are doing double duty by "Serving the colors" in Arms and relieving the monotony of camp life -by entertaining with Magic.

Serving the Colors.

OUR HONOR ROLL to date so far as reported to your secretary reads thus:—No. 313, F. Bryant Bigelow, Serg't; No. 492, Fairfax Carter Berger is an Aviation Cadet; No. 418, Charles Huot from South Africa, is Somewhere in France; No. 485, Randolph Joseph Wagner, Cartoonist, is with the Camouflage Engineers; No. 555, Kenneth Webb Stevens; No. 113, Theo. S. Blakesley, M.D., Lieu't at the Aviation Camp, Minneola, N. Y.; No. 7, Harold H. Brown, Cap't at Fort Schuyler; No. 483, M. F. Caldwell; No. 524, Anton Cypra; No. 351, William H. Mosley, Jr., Commissary Steward, U. S. Navy Hospital; No. 547, Donald Graham Palmer, Serg't and Raymond S. Gallatovits.

The Annual Dinner took place Friday night, May 31st, at Hotel McAlpin, New York; the attendance was large and the affair a grand success with which to close the fiscal year, but a fuller report of it must be left to others more competent to give the detail account is your secretary at this moment.

ADDENDA:— March 25th, 1918, Saram R. Ellison, M.D., one of the founders of The Society of American Magicians and bearing the distinction of No. 1 in membership, passed to the Great Beyond, though not a member of the S. A. M. a t time of death, nevertheless it is befitting that the occurrence should be recorded with this report.

Very fraternally submitted, OSCAR S. TEALE, Secretary.