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Francis McMike(1898-1977), often referred to by his stage nickname, "Ham Hands," is an American magician, writer, and performer. He is most well-known for his performances of stage magic as Ham Hands, in addition to his vendetta against all plant life.BiographyEarly Life and Francis Henry McMike was born in Beaufort, South Carolina on November 12th, 1898 in a local general store. He was the only child of Susan McMike (née Klein) and Jonathan McMike. His family was fairly wealthy, his father being a doctor known for his expertise. As such, he was raised in stellar conditions and given an extensive education. From an early age, McMike showed a profound interest in performance, often acting in school plays or putting on shows for his family. In April of 1909, Francis' love of the performing arts branched off, and he began practicing card tricks found in books he bought. His performance was so astounding, and his family and friends so impressed, that he began making money by performing local magic tricks, in the street or in his school's auditorium when permitted. In late October, 1916, when Francis was 17 years old, his father's reputation was completely destroyed due to allegations of murder. It was never proven whether Jonathan McMike was guilty, but the accusations brought his career into jeopardy. The family was brought into poverty, and both Jonathan and Susan McMike soon became ill with Tuberculosis. Jonathan died in January of 1917, and Susan died in March of 1917.