Hollywood in Los Angeles in Los Angeles County, California — The American West (Pacific Coastal)
The Magic Castle
Photographed By Craig Baker, November 27, 2018
1. The Magic Castle Marker
In Sept. 1961, Milton Page Larsen leased this building, which would become the world-famous Magic Castle, with a handshake and a dream. Renovations began on the historic 1910 Rollin B. Lane mansion with the help and contributions of many friends and magic aficionados.
Milt's brother, William Larsen, Jr. and his wife, Irene, spearheaded business operations, launching the Academy of Magical Arts (AMA) and recruiting talented magicians to perform. Bill was appointed AMA President for Life but sadly passed away in 1993.
It wasn't as easy as abracadabra . . . With many hours of labor and gallons of paint remover, extensive improvements included the installation of rescued wood paneling, art glass windows, architectural finds and Hollywood studio cast-offs. The Magic Castle opened its doors on Jan. 2, 1963, a celebration noted in Newsweek magazine.
Today, the AMA is the premier organization dedicated to the art of magic, and its headquarters, The Magic Castle, is one of the most unique private clubs in the world, with thousands of members. Known as The Mecca for magicians, it is an internationally revered gathering place for the magic brotherhood, including its most celebrated performers.
AMA members live by the "Magic First" creed, devoted to the advancement of the magic craft, preserving
this page online
Erected 2013 by Academy of Magical Arts; and E Clampus Vitus Platrix Chapter No. 2. (Marker Number 406.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Architecture • Arts, Letters, Music • Entertainment. In addition, it is included in the E Clampus Vitus, and the Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument series lists.
Location. 34° 6.273′ N, 118° 20.498′ W. Marker is in Los Angeles, California, in Los Angeles County. It is in Hollywood. Marker can be reached from Franklin Avenue near Orange Drive. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 7001 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles CA 90028, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Nirvana Apartments (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Villa Bonita (about 700 feet away); United Methodist Church (approx. 0.2 miles away); The Outpost II (approx. 0.2 miles away); Dolores del Río House (approx. 0.2 miles away); Chinese Heaven Dogs (approx. 0.2 miles away); C. C. Brown’s Ice Cream (approx. 0.2 miles away); Dedicated to the Mrs. Minivers (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Los Angeles.
Regarding The Magic Castle.
Photographed By Craig Baker, August 6, 2023
2. Magic Castle Marker
French Chateau style, built in 1909. Dennis and Farwell, architects. Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument No. 406, designated in 1989. This plaque is located indoors.
Photographed By Craig Baker, November 27, 2018
3. The Magic Castle and Marker
The marker is to the left of the door.
Photographed By Craig Baker, November 27, 2018
4. The Magic Castle
Photographed By Craig Baker
5. The Magic Castle
Credits. This page was last revised on August 8, 2023. It was originally submitted on January 15, 2019, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. This page has been viewed 532 times since then and 31 times this year. Last updated on March 3, 2021, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. Photos: 1. submitted on January 15, 2019, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 2. submitted on August 6, 2023, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 3, 4. submitted on January 15, 2019, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. 5. submitted on August 8, 2023, by Craig Baker of Sylmar, California. • J. Makali Bruton was the editor who published this page.
