Martinka (company)
| Company type | Private |
|---|---|
| Industry | Magic, Entertainment |
| Founded | 1877 |
| Founder | Francis Martinka, Antonio Martinka |
| Headquarters | Midland Park, New Jersey , United States |
Key people | Charles Joseph Carter, Harry Houdini, Al Flosso, Jackie Flosso, Ted Bogusta |
| Products | Magic tricks, illusions, magical apparatus, magic collectibles |
Martinka & Company holds the distinction of being the longest-established magic enterprise in the United States. Previously owned by Houdini, it has integrated with more than 30 other magic businesses, including Flosso-Hornmann and Milton Chase.
Beginnings and early history
Established in 1877 by siblings Francis (1842–1924) and Antonio (1833–1915) Martinka, this business is recognized as the oldest magic shop continuously operating within the U.S.
Situated in New York City, its workshop crafted illusions and magical apparatus for numerous renowned performers. The Society of American Magicians was founded in 1902 within the backroom of Martinka’s store, which became a central meeting place for magicians to connect and share ideas. Distinguished patrons have included Alexander Herrmann, Harry Kellar, Howard Thurston, Joseph Dunninger, John Mulholland, and Harry Houdini. In more recent times, visitors have encompassed figures such as Woody Allen, Dick Cavett, Alan Alda, Penn & Teller, David Copperfield, David Blaine, and John Stessel. The original storefront at 493 Sixth Ave is officially recognized as a historic landmark and stands as New York City’s oldest magic shop.
The New York Times once characterized the establishment under the Flossos’ stewardship as "a cluttered Aladdin's cave filled with magical wonders," attracting magicians from various backgrounds.
The Back Room
The "Back Room" at Martinka contained magical artifacts dating back to the 19th century, accessible exclusively to select professionals. Gaining entry was regarded as a significant milestone. This area functioned as a space where magicians could perform and exchange new ideas, ultimately becoming the birthplace of the Society of American Magicians in 1902.
Special projects
The Martinka brothers contributed special effects to notable productions, including the iconic 1939 motion picture The Wizard of Oz.
Owners
Throughout its history, Martinka has been owned or managed by influential magicians such as Charles Joseph Carter The Great (1917), Harry Houdini (1919), Al Flosso known as the "Coney Island Fakir" (1939), and later by his son Jackie Flosso. In recent years, Ted Bogusta took ownership, introducing online auctions specializing in premium magic collectibles that frequently achieved record-breaking sales. The company continued to expand by acquiring magic libraries and collections, catering to magicians and collectors globally with both vintage and contemporary magical items and memorabilia.
Following the closure of its New York City location in 2004, Martinka operated exclusively online for one year before reopening a physical store in Midland Park, New Jersey, where it resumed producing magic tricks and props.