page_title: Jerry Andrus
section_title: Castle of Chaos
hierarchical_section_title: Jerry Andrus / Castle of Chaos
caption_attribution_description: English: Jerry Andrus performs magic at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, California
context_page_description: Jerry Andrus was an American magician and writer known internationally for his original close-up, sleight-of-hand tricks and optical illusions, such as the "Linking Pins".
context_section_description: Andrus called his home, located in Albany, Oregon, the "Castle of Chaos" in reference to the numerous items he collected over the years with the hope of using them to "make something spectacular." The castle is where he invented and created his illusions. He often hosted events and tours for magicians and fans, and in 1982 the magician organization M-U-M visited: "The affair was enhanced by conducted tours of the Castle of Chaos by our host, Jerry, and I am happy to report that most of those present who went on the tours got back safely. A few are still missing, but they aren't really important. Jerry Andrus was a most congenial host; and once he almost laughed; but he caught himself in time." Omni visited his home for the TV special The New Frontier, hosted by Peter Ustinov. The program showcased Andrus playing the organ he invented, which was designed so that the keys, when played, turned lights located around the home on and off .
  In 1996, Jerry Andrus demonstrated some of his inventions in his home in episode 77 of Bill Nye the Science Guy.
  In October 2011, the "Castle of Chaos" was placed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  In July 2013, the "Castle of Chaos", currently also known as the "Keyhole House", was included on the city of Albany Historic Interior Home Tour. The newly restored home, which is owned by Jacho and Emma Eaton, maintains photos, clippings and other memorabilia from Jerry Andrus's life and career. "Jerry Andrus managed to live right under our noses while having museum exhibitions in other parts of the world and exchanging ideas with scholars, children and magicians alike, without anyone knowing — even suspecting — who he really was," she [Emma Eaton] said."
caption: Andrus performs at The Magic Castle in Hollywood, California
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