The Magician of Potter's Place
Potter's Place in Andover, NH
Richard Potter
Richard Potter was born in 1783 and lived 52 years. He was married to his wife Sally and had 3 children.
Richard Potter is said to be the first black magician in the United States. One of The earliest records of Potter advertising a show was in Boston, November 2nd, 1811 at the Columbian Museum. The show featured Ventriloquism and Magic, And for the following 22years Richard Potter performed in Boston, and through New England and Canada.
The list of effects Richard Potter performed during his career is a mix of close-up and large stage illusions, Among them are:
- Hindu Rope Trick "Believed to be the first to perform it in the US"
- Breaking Borrowed Watches and Restoring them.
- Handle and Swallow Molten Lead.
- Go into an oven with raw meat and remain in oven until meat was cooked.
- Dance on Eggs and not break them.
Richard Potter was also a accomplished Ventriloquist and Juggler which he also featured in his shows.
Richard Potter lived on a 175-acre farm in Andover that he purchased in 1814, The Potter estate consisted of several rooms on the first floor, But the second floor was said to be one big room. The Potter's would have lavish dinner parties at there home, Where Richard would entertain with Magic or Ventriloquism. Potter was very successful and it is said that he made $4800 for a 20 day engagement in Alabama in the early 1800's.
Sometime after his death and the death of his wife Sally, Who passed away 1 year after Richard at the age of 45. The house burned down. Potter and his wife Sally were buried on their estate in what was their front yard, In 1849 the town moved the graves to where the are now to make room for the railroad.
All that remains to this day is a small plot with the gravestones of Richard Potter and his wife Sally. Inscribed on Richard's Stone is "In Memory of Richard Potter the celebrated Ventriloquist, Aged 52 years. Died Sept. 20 1835"
IBM Ring 166 is proud to share the name of Richard Potter. As we continue a long history of magic in New Hampshire and celebrate the life of one of Americas finest magicians.
