This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/12/2020
Baird, Paula. Ephemera and Partial Scrapbook of Magicienne Paula Baird. Including photographs of the prize-winning manipulative magician (including one childhood portrait), seven leaves forming a partial scrapbook of her press notices and handbills advertising her shows, a die-cut brochure bound with ribbon, folding advertisements, magazine articles, and more. A few photographs with scrapbook remnants to versos, but generally good condition overall. After developing an interest in magic as a child, Baird (1917 – 1999) won a competition for young magicians at St. George’s Hall in London. She went on to a successful career as a manipulator who worked in a sleeveless evening gown, billing her act as “sophisticated sleeveless sorcery.” While she was not able to join London’s famed Magic Circle – no women were allowed to join the club as members until 1991 – she was awarded the club’s silver wand in 1950, and performed in its public shows for years. During World War II, Baird worked for ENSA, entertaining the troops, and in 1948 was awarded second place in manipulation by FISM. Baird also made headlines as the youngest girl to fly an airplane in England. She retired from performing in the 1960s.