The Sphinx (subtitled: An Independent Magazine for Magicians) was a monthly magic magazine published in Chicago from March 1902 through March 1953 by William J. Hilliar.[1]
The magazine was started in ChicagobyWilliam Hilliar and moved to Missouri in 1904 when a Kansas City physician, A. M. Wilson, took over as editor (Vol. 3 No. 8). The number of pages per issue varied from twelve to fifty or more.[2][3][4][5]
During the 28 years of Dr. Wilson's ownership, the magazine covered one of the golden ages of magic. Vaudeville was at its height, bringing a variety of magicians from all over the world to the larger cities of North America.
The Sphinx has a long history of association with the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M). In November 1902, it became the 'Western Organ' of S.A.M. In March 1909 it became the 'Official Organ' of S.A.M. From October 1927 – February 1942 and July 1947 – June 1951, S.A.M's M-U-M periodical was published as part of The Sphinx.[8]
When Wilson died in April 1930, William Larsen had entertained hopes of taking over The Sphinx. Instead, that honor went to John Mulholland of New York.[9]
Theodore Annemann's attempts to buy The Sphinx in 1938 can be seen in his Jinx magazine.[10]
