The Upchurch Collection
Preserving the Artifacts,
Stories & History
of Magic
The Upchurch Collection of Magic is a growing historical collection dedicated to preserving original artifacts, memorabilia, documents, and stories from the world of magic and illusion. From the Golden Age of stage magic to the performers shaping the art today, the collection is being developed with the long-term goal of creating a public museum and exhibition devoted to the history of magic.
Collection Highlights
Selected Collection Highlights
UCM-0001
Key from the Houdini Collection
Harry Houdini
Personal Item
SignedUCM-0002
Signed Copy of David Copperfield’s History of Magic
David Copperfield
Book / Publication
SignedUCM-0004
Autographed Photograph of Penn & Teller
Penn & Teller
Photograph
UCM-0005
David Copperfield Performance Ticket
David Copperfield
Ticket / Pass
Actively Growing
A Collection in Development
The Upchurch Collection of Magic is actively growing through direct contributions from performers, gifts from collectors and families, selective acquisitions, estates, archives, and the preservation of regional magic history. Each object is chosen for the story it helps preserve.
Scope of the Collection
What We Collect
01
Historic Stage Magic
The grand illusions and touring shows of the Golden Age.
02
Houdini & Escapology
Handcuffs, straitjackets, and the mythology of escape.
03
Close-Up & Sleight of Hand
Cards, coins, and the intimate art of the hands.
04
Mentalism
Thought-reading, prediction, and psychological mystery.
05
Television Magic
Magic adapted for the broadcast screen.
06
Las Vegas & Touring Illusion
Showroom residencies and large-scale touring shows.
07
Contemporary Magic
Performers shaping the art today.
08
Magic Apparatus & Props
The craftsmanship and engineering of magical apparatus.
09
Posters, Programs & Ephemera
The paper trail of magic — broadsides, playbills, and advertising.
10
Correspondence & Personal Material
Letters, manuscripts, and personal effects of magicians.
11
Tennessee & Mid-South Magic History
Regional performers, clubs, and venues of the Mid-South.
Recent
