Theodore “Ted” Annemann
Theodore “Ted” Annemann was an American magician, mentalist and editor whose publications became a major meeting place for practical magical ideas.
The man behind The Jinx
Born in 1907 in New York State, Annemann is particularly associated with mentalism and the magazine The Jinx. Published from 1934 to 1941, the periodical brought together his work and contributions from other creators. Its importance lies partly in this editorial role: Annemann helped preserve and circulate a wide range of performance material.
A legacy in print
Annemann died in January 1942. Practical Mental Effects appeared posthumously in 1944, edited by John J. Crimmins Jr. and illustrated by Nelson Hahne. The collection draws on The Jinx and includes material by many contributors. Calling every routine in it an invention by Annemann would therefore be misleading.
For today's reader
His publications let readers explore an earlier period of mental entertainment while considering how language and presentation might be adapted for a contemporary audience. Collectors should check whether an offer is an original issue, a bound compilation, a reprint or a translation.
Sources and image credits
https://www.lybrary.com/ted-annemann-m-20.html
https://www.lybrary.com/practical-mental-effects-p-94.html
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Theodore_Annemann_magician.png
Anonymous, Genii magazine, August 1937. Wikimedia Commons: public domain (copyright not renewed).