Evening World, Aug. 19, 1891. |
It's sometimes stated--and I'm afraid I've stated it myself--that Houdini was in the running for the U.S. Olympic team at this time. But he missed out due to illness. However, the first modern Olympic games were held in 1896 when Houdini was well into his magic career, so this cannot be right. But could this claim have been born of a misunderstanding about Harry joining a club that was "Olympian" in name only?
If this is our Harry, you'll note that he also participated in "club-swinging". If you have no idea what club swinging is (I sure didn't), check out this YouTube video. Yeah, I could see him doing this.
So, Harry Weiss, "Olympian" boxer and club swinger? Just another log for the speculative fire.
Image: Newspapers.com
Another great find!!! A stag part for the benefit of the Sick Babies Fund. Hilarious!!! That could definitely be our Harry at this boxing club.
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