The Magic of Harry Blackstone Sr.
In this week’s History of Magic feature, we take a look at Harry Blackstone Sr who became the most popular illusionist of the 1930’s and was a rival of Harry Houdini. Born in 1875 Blackstone received a magic trick for his 8th birthday that began his lifelong love of magic. He and brother Peter became cabinetmakers and together they put together an act on the vaudeville circuit building their own props. As a result of purchasing a deceased magicians full illusion show, enabled Blackstone to now incorporate these illusions in his stage show. He also became an accomplished sleight of hand performer. His brother was responsible for designing and building many more illusions for his brother. He also travelled with Blackstone Sr, as stage manager with his well-equipped, mobile workshop and a troupe of assistants.