Harry Kellar (1849-1922)
Erie, Erie County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Known as the "Dean of American Magicians," he was mentor and friend to Harry Houdini. Considered the first American magician to become an international star, he performed extensively on five continents, impressing audiences with his elegant theatrical illusions for more than 40 years. He popularized the Vanishing Birdcage effect and perfected the levitation illusion. Born in Erie, he returned to perform many times. His boyhood home stood nearby.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
Born in Erie in 1849, Harry Kellar rose to become the "Dean of American Magicians" and the first homegrown conjurer to win international fame. For more than four decades he dazzled audiences across five continents with elegant stage illusions, popularizing the Vanishing Birdcage and perfecting the seemingly impossible levitation. A mentor and friend to the young Harry Houdini, he returned often to perform in the city where his boyhood home once stood.
Why it matters
Kellar helped elevate American stage magic into world-class theatrical art and passed its torch directly to Houdini, the icon who followed him.
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Related people
- · Harry Kellar
- · Harry Houdini
Themes & tags
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