Magic and Freemasonry have several things in common. Both are ageless, and both have always been associated with secrets. Paintings on the walls in Egyptian pyramids show a magician performing “the oldest trick in the book” – Cups and Balls. Magician organizations such as the Society of American Magicians (SAM) or the International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) promote the secrecy of the art by stressing the importance of keeping the secrets of magic from the public while encouraging and teaching those who are interested in performing.

The Invisible Lodge joins both Masonry and magic. Founded in 1953 by Brother Brewerton H. Clarke of New York (a.k.a. Sir Felix Korim), the Invisible Lodge is not a Lodge, but rather an international organization of Masons who are interested in magic. Several famous magicians were Masons, including Brothers Harry Houdini, Howard Thurston, Harry Kellar, Harry Blackstone, Sr., and Harry Blackstone, Jr. Most famous Masonic magicians predate the Invisible Lodge, but there are several famous members, such as Billy McComb, Carl Ballantine, and Okito (Theo Bamberg). A leading Masonic author an researcher, S. Brent Morris, is a member of the Invisible Lodge, as well.

The Invisible Lodge has its own ceremonies that make use of elements of both the world of Freemasonry and the world of magic. They typically meet at magic conventions worldwide, where the Brethren assemble to discuss and perform magic and initiate new members. There was a time that membership in the IBM or SAM was required to join the Invisible Lodge, but now a Brother just needs to have an interest in magic as a performer or collector, show his current dues card, and complete a petition.

Nearly half of the International Presidents of the Invisible Lodge International have been Ohio Masons. These include Ronald Haines, founder of world-famous Haines House of Cards in Norwood (which is currently owned by Brother Bill Winzig), and Bill Joy, who established the Invisible Lodge’s newsletter. The last surviving International President from Ohio is Brother Joe Elliott of Reynoldsburg.

International meetings are held annually at the Columbus Magi-Fest, but there are some regional Invisible Lodge organizations that meet more frequently to initiate members, exchange ideas, and enjoy the social atmosphere. Initiation fees are $60, and dues for the international Invisible Lodge are $10 per year. The Invisible Lodge does not have any official charities, but its members are encouraged to perform free of charge at Masonic Homes and orphanages.

For more information on the Invisible Lodge, please visit http://invisiblelodge.freemason.com/.