The South African Magical Society
was formed in 1918 and is in fact the oldest such society in the country. The first
patron of the society was the eminent magician John Maskelyn. SAMS, as the society
is colloquially called, draws its members from all walks of life both in professional
and semi-professional capacity. Its members comprise of businessmen, clergy, sea
captains, artisans, sales people, teachers, doctors, etc. all dedicated to the
pursuance of and upliftment of the art of magic. SAMS were also once affiliated
to the
London Magic Circle and has close links with a number of overseas magical clubs and societies.