The Enchantment of Magicians at the Jefferson Hotel

Annual Convention of the Society of American Magicians

In May 1963, the Society of American Magicians, an organization founded in 1902, held its 35th annual convention in downtown St. Louis. Initially focused on professional magicians, by this time, the organization had included a significant number of amateur members. This gathering was no small feat, as around 500 magicians came together to showcase spells of illusion, witness daring performances, and even celebrate a wedding at the Hotel Jefferson, which was known as the Sheraton-Jefferson Hotel back then.

A Showcase of Talent

While many of the convention’s events were exclusive to members to safeguard trade secrets, a public show took place on May 31. Noteworthy acts included master illusionist Josef Smiley, who entertained audiences with a dog named Chumley, and the husband-and-wife duo, Bob and Ginny Lewis, who were known for their appearances on popular television shows. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement both on and off the stage.

Photographers from Sievers Studio immortalized various acts, capturing classic props like playing cards and stuffed bunnies, amidst daring displays of fire and sabers. One particularly entertaining act featured a magician performing a trick involving a guillotine, which certainly drew gasps from the audience. Talk about keeping everyone on their toes! Interestingly, a whimsical spectacle showcased actual cats in a makeshift boxing ring, bringing a hilariously unique twist to traditional magic shows.

Diversity in Shows

The convention also reflected some interesting trends in magic performances. Female assistants and children often played supporting roles in these shows, while some acts drew from Asian cultural aesthetics in their costumes and settings. This cross-cultural articulation added a vibrant flair, communicating the universal appeal of magic.

Magic with a Purpose

In the 1960s, magicians began using their craft as a form of therapy to entertain veterans and patients in hospitals. Dr. George Mueller from Chicago was among those practitioners who believed in the therapeutic benefits of magic. His favorite trick involved an escapology act featuring his wife sealed inside a plastic bag. Such performances aimed to uplift and distract audiences from their health struggles.

Other attendees included members of the military and various charitable organizations who also favored handkerchief tricks, demonstrating the transformative power of such simple props to inspire change and uplift spirits.

A Unique Wedding Ceremony

Among the most memorable events of the convention was the unique wedding of St. Louis member Buddy Reeves and his fiancée, Sue Campbell. They exchanged vows beneath crossed magic wands, which created a delightful blend of celebration and mystique. Buddy was humorously characterized by convention secretary-treasurer, W. E. Guetebier, stating it was an opportunity to “watch a bachelor disappear.” The ceremony underscored the camaraderie and connection shared among the magicians, binding them together in joy beyond their performances.

The Magic Week in St. Louis

Late May and early June of 1963 turned out to be a bustling time for St. Louis, hosting various organizations, including the American Academy of Dental Medicine and the National Lithuanian Society of America. However, the Society of American Magicians convention was poised to attract the largest crowds. Mayor Raymond Tucker even officially declared it “Magic Week” in St. Louis, highlighting the significance of the event to the local community.

In return, attendees gifted him a playful “money-making machine,” a charming nod to the playful spirit of the convention. St. Louis would later host the Society of American Magicians conventions on four more occasions, with the last in 2014.

Conclusion

The gathering of magicians at the Jefferson Hotel showcased the vibrant spirit of creativity and community within the world of magic. From skills honed over decades to whimsical performances that wowed audiences, this event became a hallmark of the rich tapestry that is the history of magic.

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