Magic and Camaraderie: A Look Back at the Birth of I.B.M. Ring No. 44 in 1930

Introduction

The world of magic has always been a realm of wonder and secrets, where skilled illusionists amaze and astonish audiences with their mind-boggling tricks. But behind the curtain, in the heart of the magic community, lies a rich history of camaraderie and shared passion. In 1930, the International Brotherhood of Magicians (I.B.M.) saw the birth of one such magical family – Ring No. 44, nestled in the heart of Rhode Island.

The Inaugural Year: A Glimpse into the Past

As we step into the time machine and journey back to 1930, we find ourselves in the midst of an exciting era for magicians. It was the first year of I.B.M. Ring No. 44, a gathering of magicians who would go on to create lasting memories, unforgettable performances, and a strong sense of camaraderie.

Meet the Magicians

The heart and soul of any magic club lies in its members. Ring No. 44 boasted a diverse group of magicians, each with their unique style and repertoire. From John H. Davison, the president, to A. A. A. Almon, the vice president, and Everett Murphy, the secretary and treasurer, these magicians shared not only their magical talents but also their genuine passion for the craft.

Magic and Friendship: The Monthly Meetings

One of the hallmarks of I.B.M. Ring No. 44 was their commitment to regular meetings. Every month, these magicians gathered at their meeting hall in Rhode Island, creating a space where they could discuss their craft, learn from one another, and, most importantly, forge lifelong friendships.

Their meetings were more than just gatherings; they were magical showcases. From card tricks to rope routines, from silk illusions to egg and hat mysteries, these magicians demonstrated their skills and delighted in sharing their knowledge. The applause that greeted each performance was not just for the tricks but also for the bond they shared.

Special Guests and Surprises

Harry Blackstone Sr. performing the Indian rope trick on stage.
Harry Blackstone Sr. performing the Indian rope trick on stage.

1930 was a year filled with magical surprises for I.B.M. Ring No. 44. One of the most memorable moments was the visit from the legendary magician Harry Blackstone. He brought along not just his magical prowess but also his trained rabbit, leaving the members in awe. Blackstone’s presence was a testament to the magic community’s inclusivity and willingness to share the stage with legends.

Anniversary Celebration: A Magical Extravaganza

As the year came to a close, I.B.M. Ring No. 44 celebrated its first anniversary with a grand party in February. It was a night of magic, laughter, and camaraderie. The members took turns showcasing their skills, and the event even featured John S. Van Gilder, who brought “Reckless Rupert” to life through captivating pictures.

Conclusion

Looking back at the birth of I.B.M. Ring No. 44 in 1930, we’re reminded that magic isn’t just about tricks and illusions. It’s about the friendships we forge, the knowledge we share, and the joy we bring to others. The magicians of Ring No. 44 were more than illusionists; they were a close-knit family, united by their love for magic.

Today, the legacy of I.B.M. Ring No. 44 lives on in the hearts of magicians around the world. It serves as a testament to the enduring power of magic to bring people together, create lasting bonds, and inspire wonder in the hearts of all who witness its enchanting secrets. So, the next time you witness a magician perform an astounding feat, remember that behind the magic lies a world of friendship and camaraderie, just waiting to be discovered.

Based on the IBM Ring reports (Volume 10).

Image: Harry Blackstone Sr. performing the Indian rope trick on stage.

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January 1968

January 1968

NO. 44, PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND— Meets 1st Fri. of month at Lady of Charity Hall, 345 Admiral St., Providence, R. I. 

ORLANDO GALLUCCIO, President, Providence, R. I. 02908 

ARTHUR A. MEOLA, Secretary, No. Providence, R. I. 02904

The December meeting brought out a good attendance. Among our guests was Airman first class David Scribner, a member of Ring 162 in Plainfield, New Jersey, who is presently stationed at Otis Air Force Base on Cape Cod, Mass.

We were reminded that H. Adrian Smith’s library of about 200 magic books dating back to 1562 will be on display at the Brown University Library until February. Magicians in surrounding states should take advantage of this opportunity to view these books from the finest private collection of magic books in the world.

Morris Kay opened the magic portion of the meeting by producing coins from a silk then producing silks from a small box previously shown to be empty and concluding by burning two quarters in a pan which were transformed into fifty pennies. Orlando Galluccio had a card chosen and mixed into the pack. Dividing the pack into small packets, he had several spectators rip them into four pieces and place the pieces into a hat. He then retrieved the four pieces from the hat which matched to make up the chosen card. He followed this with the “Obedient Silks.”

Collation followed and the main topic of conversation was the Christmas Party.

The Christmas Party on Dec. 3rd was conducted by Ring 44 and SAM Assembly 26. It was considered by all who attended an outstanding success.

The party was held at Giuliano’s Restaurant where a delicious full course dinner was served to 175 members and guests. President Galluccio was chairman of the committee and expended considerable time and effort in assuring a good time for all.

Every lady was presented with a Christmas corsage and other items in addition to plastic doilies with Christmas decorations and candied cherries made up by Mrs. Angela Meola. She and Mrs. Irene Percival also donated most of the free door prizes. Mrs. Meola also assisted her secretary husband in securing 82 paid admissions to establish a record for ticket sales.

Morris Kay contributed two large baskets of groceries and Olindo Galluccio gave a radio and several other valuable gifts, which were raffled off and the proceeds donated to the clubs.

With Ed Whitford acting as MC the Christmas Party show was opened by President Galluccio who displayed many variations of tying and untying knots on a rope and wound up his act with a clever neck penetration with one rope.

Morris Kay started his act with a torn and restored wand and proceeded with a production tube, fountain silks, milk pitcher and the diminishing beer bottle in a paper bag.

Herbert Lamond, Herbie and the Derby, presented chalk talk with clever drawings and concluded by having a spectator choose a card which he produced in giant size from a slot on his drawing board. 

The final act of the evening was a spectacular Chinese act with Lou Ackenro from Boston appearing as the reincarnation of Chung Ling Foo. He amazed the audience with his rice bowls, pouring water into the bowls and spilling out dry rice. He poured milk into a vase and withdrew several beautiful silks. Knotting a silk around a rope, he pulled the silk through still knotted; made a series of square knots in a rope and after a few more twists stretched out the rope with nary a knot. For a fitting finale he dumped several buckets of water into a large tub and fished out paper buckets, huge silks and finally a large American flag.

Arthur A. Meola

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RISM Member Malik Hadadi is doing a benefit to support the Maui Fire victims on Friday October 13.

Join us for an incredible show with magical comedy entertainer Malik Haddadi and live musician Patrick Dow! Get ready to be dazzled by mind-blowing tricks and illusions that will leave you in awe. This in-person event will take place at Atrium on Main 285 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI. Bring your family and friends for a fun-filled evening of laughter and amazement that goes to help rebuild Hawaii after their devastating fires! Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience that makes a difference!

Tickets are $35 and include entry and buffet.

Doors open at 6pm with the buffet and live music beginning at 6:30pm, and the magic show starting at 7:30pm.

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