Unfortunately, the great Houdini figure toy never went beyond the patents office (as far as I know). In fact, a Houdini action figure of any kind was conspicuously absent until Accoutrements released their Houdini Action Figure in 2005.
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Harry Houdini - Toymaker
Houdini did it all. He even patented inventions. Well-known is the patent Houdini filed in 1921 for a quick release diving suit. But less well-known is this "Figure Toy" Houdini patented in 1926. The design allowed for "Houdini" to struggle free of a straitjacket when turned upside down onto his head. Pretty clever!
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Oh yes there was a working prototype. The Hinsons owned it. It wound with a key. Stanley Palm played with it. As he told it: the figure vibrated until it turned onto its head then spun until the arms opened by centripetal force.
ReplyDeleteSomewhere along the way, the Hinsons gave it to a fan. It might still exist.
Oh, wow, really? That is awesome. Where is that Houdini prototype toy today I wonder? Thanks, Patrick.
Deletedo you think it can be made again, I never saw it, it was before my time.
ReplyDeleteToo bad you never got to play with this one as a kid, John. But at least you had the Mirror cuffs. :)
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