Paul Fox

Paul Fox (May 9,1898 - December 19, 1976), born Paul Fuchs in Chillicothe, Ohio, was a magic designer and inventor. He served in World War I and attended the University of Notre Dame. He went on to study engraving in Cleveland, later moving to Chicago to teach it from 1924-1926.

In the late 1920's Paul became ill, diagnosed with tuberculosis and moved to Colorado Springs for his health on his doctor's advice. Paul was close friends with many of the great close-up magicians of his time who came by to visit him include:Dai Vernon, Dr. Jacob Daley, Faucett Ross and Charlie Miller.

He obtained several patents on various inventions, including a plastic tape dispenser, paper matchbooks and Christmas tree ornaments.

Contributions

He created the first Lightning Cane Vanish and designed the Coin Pail sold by the Chicago Magic Company.

He created the Miracle Gimmick (1947), a Long Pour Salt Gimmick (which was used by Fred Kaps) and a version Rising Cards.

Paul was one of the first to do a full length cigarette act and to use doves in an act. He helped Cantu develop his dove act. Paul improved the Floating Light Bulb and sold it to Blackstone, Sr.

Paul gave Danny Dew permission to market anything of his magic that he chose and he placed on the market his cup design for the cups and balls and several other items. The Paul Fox "Cups and Balls" are still are considered by many collectors to be the finest sets ever made.

References

• February, 2001 Linking Ring Paul Fox - "Paul Fox: The Great Innovator" by Dr. Ed Prendergast