John Petrie

John Albert Petrie (August 23, 1870 - February 2, 1954), born in New Haven, Connecticut, was a magic manufacturer and dealer.

In the 1900 Petrie invented such devices as the first self-starter for automobiles and the first safety lock to prevent car doors from springing open.

Petrie first opened the Swastika Magic Company in 1899, followed by the Mysto Magic Company with A. C. Gilbert in 1909.

Then in 1919, he started Petrie-Lewis Manufacturing Company (known as P&L) and produced some of the today's most highly collectible magic equipment.

Petrie filmed some 16mm movies, including studies of Frederick Eugene Powell (who lived with the Petries during his last years and copies of the film are now part of the S.A.M. Film Library).

References

• MUM November, 1962, Vol. 52, no. 6.