Martinka facts for kids

Martinka & Company is America's oldest magic company still running today. This business was even owned by the famous magician Harry Houdini for a time. Over the years, Martinka has joined with more than 30 other magic companies, like Flosso-Hornmann and Milton Chase.

The Start of Martinka's Magic

The Martinka & Company business began in 1877. It was started by two brothers, Francis (born 1842) and Antonio (born 1833) Martinka. Many believe it is the oldest magic shop that has been open continuously in the United States.

Behind their store in New York City, the Martinka brothers had a workshop. Here, they built amazing magic tricks and props. They made these items for almost all the famous magicians of their time.

A Meeting Place for Magicians

In 1902, a special group called the Society of American Magicians was formed right in Martinka's backroom. From its early days, the Martinka magic shop became a popular spot. Magicians, both famous and new, professionals and hobbyists, would gather there. They would chat, share stories, and swap magic ideas.

For nearly 150 years, many generations of magic lovers have met at this shop. Famous customers from the past include Alexander Herrmann, Harry Kellar, Howard Thurston, and Harry Houdini. More recently, people like Woody Allen, Penn & Teller, David Copperfield, David Blaine, and John Stessel have visited the shop.

The New York Times once described the shop as a "messy Aladdin's cave of magical marvels." It had everything from trick cards and ropes to even a live lion! One owner, the magician Carter the Great, kept a lion in the back room. The shop was like a club where a visiting magician from Europe and a curious teenager from Queens could meet and share magic ideas.

Martinka's Special Projects

The Martinka brothers also created special effects for many shows. This included the classic 1939 film, "The Wizard of Oz". They helped bring the magic of Oz to life on the big screen.

The Secret Back Room

Martinka's "Back Room" was a very special place. It held magical treasures that dated back to the 1800s. It also contained other secret items that only a few chosen people could see. Many in the magic world believed that being invited into the back room was an important step for any magician.

Who Has Owned Martinka?

Martinka & Company has had several famous owners over the years. These include Charles Joseph Carter The Great (in 1917) and Harry Houdini (in 1919). Later, Al Flosso, known as the "Coney Island Fakir," owned it (in 1939). His son, Jackie Flosso, also owned the shop.

Today, Ted Bogusta runs the company. Martinka still has a physical shop that includes a small museum. Ted Bogusta also started online magic auctions. These auctions sell high-end magic collectibles, and some items have sold for record-breaking prices.

According to Martinka's website, the company still buys collections of magic items and books. These are used to provide vintage and modern magic tricks and souvenirs to magicians and collectors worldwide.

In 2004, the Martinka shop in New York City closed. For a year, the company only sold items online. Then, they reopened a store in Midland Park, New Jersey. They also started making magic tricks and props again. Their website now says that Martinka is selling online only once more, but they are thinking about opening a new retail store.

Images for kids

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  Typical Martenitsa

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  Martenitsi tied to a blossoming tree, a symbol of approaching spring

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  Another tied Martenitsa

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  Blossoming Magnolia full of tied Martenitsi