Background
Mulholland, John was born on June 9, 1898 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Son of John and Irene May (Wickizer) M., education high school and special courses Columbia and College City of New New York
Mulholland, John was born on June 9, 1898 in Chicago, Illinois, United States. Son of John and Irene May (Wickizer) M., education high school and special courses Columbia and College City of New New York
Began practicing magic at 5 years of age as a hobby, and entered field professionally while in school. Teacher of industrial arts, Horace Mann School for Boys, New York, 6 years. Formerly identified with the World Book Company.
Editor The Sphinx (magicians magazine), 23 years.
Gave exhibitions of magic and lectured upon magic in principal countries of the world. Lifetime collection of books and memorabilia on magic given to the Walter Hampden Memorial Library at the Players, New York City.
Mulholland learned the art of magic as a teenager with John William Sargent, President of the Society of American Magicians. Mulholland was a professional magician for two decades, working in small companies and large stage shows. He ran one of the first magic workshops and was from 1930 the editor of the magical trade magazine The Sphinx.
He published many books on magic and its history.
During the Second World War, he wrote a spellbook for soldiers. His impressive collection is now owned by David Copperfield.
He left The Sphinx in 1953, officially due to health problems but actually to work for the Central Intelligence Agency.
Member of Society American Magicians, Inner Magic Circle, British Magical Society, Indian Magicians’. Clubs: Players, Circumnavigators, Dutch Treat (New York City).
Married Pauline Pierce, 1932.