Remembering Edwin Dawes: The Historian Who Preserved Magic's Greatest Stories

 

July 6 marks the birthday of one of magic's greatest historians, Edwin Alfred Dawes (1925–2023).

While many magicians are remembered for fooling audiences with impossible illusions, Dawes earned his place in magic history by preserving the stories behind those performers. His decades of research ensured that the accomplishments of legendary magicians would never be forgotten.

Born on July 6, 1925, in Yorkshire, England, Dawes developed a fascination with magic as a young child after watching family members perform simple tricks. That curiosity eventually grew into a lifelong passion—not only for performing magic but for documenting its rich history.

Outside of magic, Dawes enjoyed a distinguished career as a biochemist and university professor. Within the magic community, however, he became internationally respected as one of the foremost authorities on the history of conjuring.

He authored countless articles and several important books chronicling the lives and careers of famous magicians, including Harry Houdini, David Devant, John Nevil Maskelyne, and many others. His meticulous research has been cited by historians and performers around the world and continues to inspire anyone interested in the heritage of the art.

Edwin Dawes reminded magicians that every illusion has a story—and that preserving those stories is just as important as creating new ones.

Today, on what would have been his birthday, we celebrate a man whose work ensured that the history of magic will continue to educate and inspire generations to come.