Name/Title
Inez Blackstone KitchenEntry/Object ID
2022.29.2Description
Two photographs of Inez Blackstone Kitchen. In one photograph, Inez is posed with her dog and husband, Harry Blackstone. The other photograph is a copy of the first, however husband Harry Blackstone is painted out of the posed photo with paint.Context
Born Inez Nourse in 1899, Inez was a touring musician during the mid-1910's. In 1916, Inez was on tour playing music under the name "Banjo Fiend," when she met Harry Blackstone Sr., who after meeting her hired Inez to play for his magic performance tours. Around 1920 Inez Nourse and Harry Blackstone married. As a married couple, Inez contributed to Blackstone's shows immensely, taking part in several elements of Blackstone's performances, from assisting Blackstone on stage to stage production, set design, costume design, and management. Inez and Harry divorced around 1930. In 1933, Inez married Robert Kitchen.
Inez was the first lady to join the International Brotherhood of Magicians and also the first woman to organize an I.B.M. Ring, Ring 81, located in Sarasota Florida. Inez served as President for 24 years and was awarded accolades for her service within the Ring. I.B.M. Ring 81 was named after Inez Blackstone Kitchen.
Inez passed away in 1983 and is buried at Lakeside Cemetery in Colon, Michigan.Collection
Robert & Elaine Lund Archives & Special Collections