The Magic Collectors' Association (MCA) was founded in New York City in 1950, and after fits and starts, established itself in its current form in 1955.

For over 20 years, the organization (which has no formal business meetings or affiliated politics and nonsense, really), was headquartered in suburban Chicago, where the editor of its journal, Magicol, lived.

As of this writing (February, 2010), the MCA is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, under the stewardship of David Ben's not-for-profit arts organization, Magicana. The first issue of Magicol under Ben's editorship is slated for release later this month.

Anyone with even a passing interest in the history of magic should join the MCA. The yearly dues are modest, the quarterly publication is splendid, and the annual conference (this year held in a new venue in suburban Chicago) is well worth attending. Yes, the journal discusses collectibles in a strict sense, but it also devotes a significant amount of ink to history - stories of magicians and the things they produced that make the artform so fascinating. Many such stories and subjects will be highlighted at this year's the event. The dates are May 13-15th, and attendance is limited to 200 registrants - so don't wait to sign up if you have even a passing interest in attending. The guests of honor will be Mike Caveney and George Daily.

Click here to learn more about the Magic Collectors' Association.