Black Herman, the magician that cheated death.

Black Herman, whose real name was Benjamin Rucker (1889-1934), was a renowned American stage magician and one of the most prominent African-American magicians of his time. Born in Amherst, Virginia, he learned the art of illusion from his teacher and later partner, Prince Herman. Together, they performed both as magicians and as sellers of patent medicine. After Prince Herman's death, Rucker took on the name "Black Herman" in his honor and continued touring, focusing solely on his stage act.

Herman adopted Harlem, New York City, as his home base, navigating the challenges of racial segregation during the Jim Crow era. While he could perform before racially mixed audiences in the Northern states, he primarily entertained black audiences when touring in the South. Black Herman's repertoire included captivating illusions such as the Asrah levitation, rabbit productions, escaping from knots tied by audience members, and a dramatic "buried alive" act. This act involved his interment in an area known as "Black Herman's Private Graveyard" followed by his revival, walk to the stage venue, and continuation of the show.

In 1925, Black Herman published a book titled "Secrets of Magic, Mystery, and Legerdemain," which showcased a semi-fictionalized autobiography, beginner-friendly stage magic tricks, insights into astrology and lucky numbers, and a glimpse into African-American hoodoo folk magic practices. The book was sold at his performances and emphasized his pattern of returning to regular venues every seven years.

Tragically, Black Herman passed away at the age of 44 in Louisville, Kentucky, likely due to a heart attack. While there were sensational stories about him collapsing during a show, reliable sources indicate that he died at a boarding house in Louisville where he and his troupe were staying. Due to the fame of his "buried alive" act, there were rumors about his death, leading his assistant Washington Reeves to charge admission for viewing Rucker's body at the funeral home. Ultimately, Black Herman was laid to rest in Woodlawn Cemetery in Bronx, New York City.

Black Herman's legacy lives on through his popular book, "Secrets of Magic, Mystery, and Legerdemain," which has been republished multiple times. Scholars and enthusiasts interested in his life and artistry can also explore further readings such as "Conjure Times" by Jim Haskins and Kathleen Benson, "Black Jack: A Drama of Magic, Mystery, and Legerdemain" by George Patton, and Ishmael Reed's novel "Mumbo-Jumbo," in which Black Herman appears as a major character.