SleightfulThe Rise & Fall Of Hank Lee's
Craig Petty reviews the history of Hank Lee's Magic Factory, exploring its rise as a cornerstone of the magic industry through its extensive catalogs and strong inventor relationships, and its fall due to the shift to online marketplaces and economic pressures, offering a reflective commentary on the evolution of magic retail and community.
Key points
Hank Lee's Magic Factory was a major magic dealer and distributor in the United States for decades.
Its success was driven by extensive mail-order catalogs that served as a primary resource for magicians before the digital age.
The company had strong relationships with magic inventors and was often first to release new effects.
Closure was due to the shift towards online dealers, digital marketplaces, and broader economic changes.
The review serves as a commentary on the evolution of the magic community and retail practices.