About us
Our History
our history 1999–2004
MuggleNet was founded on October 1, 1999, by Emerson Spartz, a 12-year-old homeschooled student from La Porte, Indiana. Spartz’s studious nature and his passion for Harry Potter would pay off, for within a year of its founding, MuggleNet became very popular. Since then, the site has benefitted from hundreds of contributors and continues to reach an audience of millions each year.
MuggleNet distinguished itself early on by its unique and comprehensive content. The site featured discussion forums, editorials, and reference sections such as “ Name Origins.” It even launched an interactive flash site called MuggleNet Interactive, which further immersed fans into Harry’s world by incorporating role-playing games. Along with reporting the latest news regarding both the books and the films, MuggleNet also created a fan fiction website, a weekly caption contest, and a recipe section.
On May 15, 2004, Harry Potter author J.K. Rowling bestowed upon the website her highest honor, the Fan Site Award. J.K. Rowling wrote about MuggleNet’s look and content when she presented the award:
It’s high time I paid homage to the mighty MuggleNet… Where to start? I love the design, …the polls, …the pretty-much exhaustive information… the wonderful editorials…. 110 Ways to Annoy Voldemort, (made me laugh out loud)…pretty much everything… I salute you.
Did You Know
The curse of the Defense Against the Dark Arts position was inspired by the Spinal Tap drummers dying in bizarre circumstances.
Potter History
November 17, 2004 – Harry Potter screenwriter Steve Kloves temporarily steps down for Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix; is replaced by Michael Goldenberg.
Potter Quote
“It was necessary. He’s extremely powerful. We’ve had to change his guard three times – he’s very… persuasive. So we removed his tongue.”