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From: Darth Simian on 20 Jul 2010 08:25
The electrified hazing devices and jolly old death traps of 1930s
men's clubs
Back in the day, fraternal organizations like the Freemasons and
Woodmen of the World would haze new members in bizarre rituals using
electric carpets and exploding furniture. Fantagraphics' upcoming
book, Burlesque Paraphernalia, reprints a catalog of these sadistic
inventions.
In Burlesque Paraphernalia and Side Degree Specialties and Costumes,
editors Charles Schneider and Gary Groth resurrect DeMoulin Bros.'
Catalog No. 439, a mail-order tome of electrical cages, creepy
costumes, and other casual torture devices. DeMoulin marketed these
gadgets to men's social clubs, who were all too happy to subject new
recruits to shocking see-saws and detonating flower pots.
More, with pictures…
http://io9.com/5574496/the-electrified-hazing-devices-and-jolly-old-death-traps-of-1930s-mens-clubs/gallery/
--
“European aristocrats transferred their lighted candles from Christian
altars to Masonic lodges. The flame of occult alchemists, which had
promised to turn dross into gold, reappeared at the center of new
"circles" seeking to recreate a golden age: Bavarian Illuminists
conspiring against the Jesuits, French Philadelphians against
Napoleon, Italian charcoal burners against the Hapsburgs.”
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