The Abbott House: Preserving a Magical Legacy in Omaha
Tucked away at 3316 Center Street in Omaha, Nebraska, stands the Abbott House, an unassuming Craftsman bungalow with an extraordinary story. Built in 1913 for magician David P. Abbott and his wife, Fannie, this “House of Mystery” was purpose-built by Abbott to host intimate magic performances for invited guests Facebook.
A Stage at Home
David P. Abbott, a banker and inventor-illusionist, crafted the home’s interior with showmanship in mind. The foyer, lined with windows and centered around a grand fireplace, was designed to create a theatrical atmosphere. Its generous ceiling height, expansive rooms, and cleverly rigged architectural details turned the house into a private performance space Omaha Magazine
Among his most ingenious creations were the Talking Teakettle, which used induction coils and a hidden microphone for Fannie to project her voice, and the famous Floating Ball illusion My Omaha Obsession
From Private Home to Magical Museum
After decades of varied ownership, the house—and many of Abbott’s artifacts—found their way to the Omaha Magical Society thanks to a remarkable intervention by Teller of Penn & Teller. In September 2024, Teller purchased and donated the property to the society. His unique arrangement even included a loan forgiveness opportunity if the society successfully revitalized the house by 2026 Preserve Omaha.
Now under the stewardship of the Omaha Magical Society, with support from Preserve Omaha, the house is gradually being restored to its original 1920s appearance. Visitors will soon be able to experience the Abbotts’ vision firsthand: rare artifacts, replicas of their inventions, and the recreated drawing room where Abbott first performed KETV.
2026 and Beyond: Reopening the Mystery House
Though not a conventional museum, the plan for the Abbott House is to function as an exclusive membership-based venue. Once restoration is complete, it will open by appointment only for small group visits, member dinners, and performances. An apartment in the basement will house a property manager, and the venue may host special events a few times per year Omaha Magazine.
The grand reopening is targeted for Summer 2026, and the society is also pursuing listing on the National Register of Historic Places Nebraska Public Media.
Why This Matters
Honoring Abbott’s Legacy Today
Abbott’s influence continues to inspire magicians around the world — including those in Omaha. In fact, in 2013, Luis Villamonte, owner of MagicKits.com, received the prestigious David P. Abbott Award for his accomplishments in magic and his dedication to preserving and advancing the art. This connection highlights how Abbott’s legacy lives on, not only through the Abbott House but also through the magicians who carry his spirit of creativity and wonder into the modern age.
Thanks to the Omaha Magical Society’s dedication (itself founded with Abbott as a member in 1921) and Teller’s generosity, this magical landmark will once again become a place of wonder and inspiration for future generations Omaha Exploration.
Interested in visiting or supporting this restoration?
Read more from the Omaha World-Herald, watch a video on Abbott’s impact, and discover ways to contribute to the project on the Omaha Magical Society’s website Omaha Magic Society.