The fatalist in Seattle

Here's a nice clipping of Houdini doing a suspended straitjacket escape from the Seattle Times building on October 19, 1915. This was during Houdini's week-long run at Seattle's Orpheum Theater located on 3rd & Madison. It was his first appearance in the city.

Seattle Daily Times, Oct. 20, 1915

While finding a new photo of Houdini is always great, I get just as excited when I discover a nugget such as the below. This is an early mention of Houdini's belief in reincarnation and fatalism, and how he came to hold these beliefs.

Seattle Daily Times, Oct 22, 1915

A fatalist is a person who believes that all events are predetermined and therefore inevitable. A fatalist believes in destiny. Houdini would often describe himself as a fatalist. The earliest mention I've found was in 1909, and the latest was in 1924. You could say that it was a core philosophy. 

Hey, let's see what Google's A.I. has to say about this:

WRONG

This week, Houdini sat for a new series of publicity photos at the studio of F. C. LaPine at 1109 Third Avenue in Seattle. One of those famous portraits is below.

The Fatalist

What's left of Houdini's Seattle? Not much. The Orpheum was demolished in 1949. The Seattle Times building stood on the northeast corner of 2nd Ave. and Union St. Like so many Houdini locations, a parking lot stands on the site today.

You can read more about Houdini in Seattle at HistoryLink.org. You can also continue on to his next stop, Portland.

Want more? I've uploaded a file of newspaper clippings related to Houdini's 1915 Seattle engagement, along with a few more articles in which he describes himself as a fatalist, to my Patreon.

Related:

• Original Houdini portrait photo nabs $887 on eBay
• Houdini, reincarnation, and a man named Von Treck
• Houdini in Portland

Houdini window display at the Culver Hotel

Last night I enjoyed seeing The Living Daylights in Culver City as part of a series of classic James Bond film screenings co-organized by our friend Neil McNally of The Doug Henning Project. But I can never escape Houdini, and after the screening, I went and took a look at this curious window display at the historic Culver Hotel.

The display was a hodgepodge of "vintage" items, so I'm unsure what to make of it. Are we to believe this is Houdini's top hat? I do know that two authenticated Houdini top hats exist in the collections of John Hinson and Roger Dreyer.

The Culver Hotel was built in 1924. Houdini briefly visited Los Angeles that year to give his spiritualism lecture, but he stayed at the Biltmore Hotel. It's unlikely he ventured outside of the downtown area as this was a quick whistle stop on his lecture tour. So I'm not aware of any Houdini connection to the Culver Hotel.

Of course, if we ask Google's A.I., we get a very different answer:

WRONG

Sorry, Knickerbocker, our A.I. overlords have spoken. The Final Houdini Seance took place on the roof of the Culver Hotel. And that's Houdini's top hat.

If you're interested in catching a Bond movie and viewing the display for yourself (the hotel sits directly across from the Culver Theater), here's the current film lineup with more to come.

Thanks to Dr. Larrian Gillespie for the tip about the display and Bob Mitsch for the above photo.

Related:

• Harry Houdini's top hat
• Houdini's lost top hat is found
• And now for something completely different

Wild Weber's

Take a look at this advertisement for Weber's Bread from 1972. I was a Wonder Bread kid myself. But had I seen this ad, that might have been different!

Santa Barbara News Press, Feb. 10, 1972.

Weber's Bread was founded in 1908. Kudos to the ad agency for using a photo of Houdini from that very year—unless that was just a happy coincidence.

While Weber's bakery went out of business a few years ago, you can still buy bread with the Weber's name and distinctive checkerboard packaging.

Related:

• Jack Rabbit was a Houdini bunny
• Houdini's secrets brought to you by Camel cigarettes
• Ehrich Weiss makes a name for himself

40th anniversary of Houdini Plaza in Appleton

Today is the 40th Anniversary of Appleton's Houdini Plaza. The plaza was dedicated on May 25, 1985, in a celebration that featured magic performances by members of the Houdini Club of Wisconsin.

The original plaza design centered around an abstract sculpture created by Richard C. Wolter called "Metamorphosis." The dedication plaque said the plaza was built on the site of the Weiss family home.

Houdini Plaza was completely renovated and rededicated in 2013. In 2015, a spectacular new bronze bust was installed in the plaza, further celebrating Appleton's favorite son.

Houdini Plaza Dedication poster reprint from Poster Museum.

Related:

• New Houdini Plaza bust revealed
• New Houdini Plaza opens in Appleton
• Appleton plans to bring Houdini sculpture back into public view

Houdini's own Reckoning

For those seeing Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning this weekend, you might notice something familiar. The movie features an exciting biplane action sequence with the hero clinging to wings, much like Houdini's The Grim Game (1919).

There are severals similarities here. The biplane action is the climax of both movies. Both feature the hero chasing the villain in a second plane. There is a daring mid-air transfer. Both were filmed with real planes and stunts. Both are featured heavily in advertising, with the star promoted as having done the stunts himself. And both movies are released by Paramount.

In interviews, star Tom Cruise said he was inspired by watching "black and white footage of the very early days of wing-walking." We know Cruise almost played Houdini at one point, so maybe that footage included The Grim Game? It's still a great idea over 100 years later!

But the real question -- who did it better?

Related:

• 100 years ago over Santa Monica
• Tom Cruise was set to play Houdini in 2004
• Did Houdini do at least part of The Grim Game airplane stunt?

"This is a contest, not a love match!"

It's on! The members of the UKEA (United Kingdom Escape Artists) have accepted my challenge for one of their members to recreate the infamous Houdini-Hodgson challenge. Looks like Robin Fox will be that man. Let's hope he doesn't expect some kind of "milk and water affair." In the immortal words of William Hope Hodgson himself, "This is a contest, not a love match!" 👊

Robin will take on the challenge at the UKEA Convention at Shrewsbury Prison in the UK on June 14, 2025. Chris Gower will also give a talk on the rare handcuffs that Houdini owned. You can get more details at the UKEA Convention's Facebook page and buy tickets at De-Val Escapology. Does someone in the UK want to be my eyes and ears to make sure this thing is on the level!?

In all seriousness, I'm thrilled the UKEA and Robin have embraced this idea. The Hodgson challenge was one of Houdini's hardest tests, and I think a lot can be learned from recreating it.

But can he do it?

Related:

• Houdini vs. Hodgson in new book
• Inside History covers Houdini vs Hodgson
• Guest Blog: A modern day Transport Cell challenge

Top Gun Houdini

We all know that Houdini registered for the draft when the United States entered the first World War. We also know he never called due to his age. The draft would have likely sent him into the Army, but the clipping below shows Houdini was gunning for another branch of the military.

The Jersey Journal, Aug 21, 1915.

Yes, the world's worst sailor envisioned himself as a Navy man. I guess he'd be okay as long as he stayed in the air. Fortunately or unfortunately, we never got Top Gun Houdini.

A.I. generated image (obviously)

Related:

• Houdini meets the Red Baron
• Houdini and his doughboys take a dunk
• Houdini's gibbet and the Hippodrome war float

James Randi's own Shelton pool test

On February 7, 1956, James The Amazing Randi recreated Houdini's famous Shelton pool test on the very site of Houdini's 1926 stunt. Randi said he wanted to prove that Houdini did not employ trickery; one really could remain alive in a space with limited oxygen using Houdini's principles. Below is the story.

The Morning Call, Feb 8, 1956.

Despite Randi saying he would not repeat the stunt, I recently discovered that he did! Randi repeated the test in the pool of the Hollywood Plaza Hotel for the television show You Asked For It. I've shared video of that test on my Patreon below. It's surprisingly tense and makes one appreciate how Houdini's tests must have been similarly suspenseful.

Related:

• James Randi on his Shelton pool test
• James Randi passes away at 92
• The Shelton pool test at 90

And now for something completely different

Here's something different to end the week. This is me NOT talking about Houdini! That's because I was a guest on the To Live and Let Die in L.A. James Bond podcast with Steve Kilcullen and Neil McNally. You may know Neil from the excellent Doug Henning Project website. But this one is all about Bond, James Bond.

By the way, in the story I tell about attending The Living Daylights premiere in London, what I didn't mention was that the theater, the Odeon in Leicester Square, was once the Alhambra, where Houdini had his breakout success in 1900. See, I brought it back to Harry!

Check out Steve and Neil's To Live and Let Die in L.A. website and Instagram. And if you're in L.A., consider attending one of their screenings at the Culver Theater.

Related:

• See 'From Russia With Love' in a Houdini theater
• Mystifier, Second Quarter 1995 (John Gardner reference)
• LINK: Harry Houdini May Have Been the Real James Bond

LINK: Houdini: The Man Who Died Twice

Our friend Dr. Larrian Gillespie is back with a new series of posts at the Houdinarian Society. This time, she tackles issues she sees with Houdini's death certificate, or at least the document that we have come to accept as his death certificate. Her findings add up to some provocative conclusions. I will leave it to you to read and digest via the links below.

Related:

• LINK: The mystery serum is a mystery no more!
• Latest dynamite from the Houdinarian Society
• Discover the Houdinarian Society

Houdini "Reflections" by Joe Hernandez

The prolific Joe Hernandez is back with yet another new Houdini book called Houdini "Reflections." Here's a description.

Discover the extraordinary life of Harry Houdini, the legendary illusionist and escape artist, through a unique anthology that celebrates his remarkable journey. This collection of 54 evocative poems captures pivotal moments in Houdini's life, offering a tribute to his daring escape acts, diverse talents, and innovative spirit.

From his early beginnings in Hungary to his rise as a beloved figure in magic and entertainment, each poem intertwines personal anecdotes and historical context, providing readers with an intimate glimpse into the man who forever altered the landscape of performance art. This anthology honors Houdini's legacy and inspires modern magicians and entertainers, ensuring that his indomitable spirit continues to resonate today.

Perfect for fans of magic, history, and poetry alike, this compelling collection celebrates courage, creativity, and the magic that lies within each of us. Dive into the world of Houdini and experience the artistic brilliance that defines his enduring influence on generations to come.

You can buy Houdini "Reflections" in paperback at Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.

Joe is also offering a limited edition hardcover for $52 plus $5 S&H via USPS Media Mail in the Continental USA. You can buy this edition directly from Joe via PayPal joedez53@gmail.com. Be sure to provide an address when you pay. Tell Joe you saw it on WILD ABOUT HARRY and he will select a low number for you.

Related:

• Houdini: The Ultimate Trivia Compendium 
• Houdini: The Ultimate Trivia Compendium Limited Edition
• Pins and Needles: Love Letters to a Dead Magician

LINK: HHCE highlights from Magic Collector Expo

I wasn't able to attend this year's Magic Collector Expo in Las Vegas, but our good friend Joe Notaro was there and has a full report on his blog. This year's expo included a tour of David Copperfield's incredible International Museum and Library of the Conjuring Arts.

Click here or on the headline to take the journey with Joe.

Related:

• Magic Collector Expo 2024 aboard the Queen Mary
• A five star Magic Collector Expo in Cleveland
• Houdini haunts The 43rd Magic Collectors Weekend

A spectacular fastening

I first shared this image back in 2013 as part of my Unpublished Houdini series. But I felt like it was worth a repeat. You may think you've seen this photo, but look again closely. Notice the additional ropes from Houdini's wrists to his neck and the chair sitting in front of the ladder. This is actually an unpublished and uncropped shot taken during the same session. But this shot gives us a much better look at the studio setting for this "spectacular fastening."

"Strange as it may appear, I have found that the more spectacular the fastening to the eyes of the audience, the less difficult the escape really proves to be. For example, the ladder tie here shown gives the impression of an almost unescapable restraint, while in reality it is simply a slow but sure proposition."

- Houdini, Magical Rope Ties and Escape (1921)

If you like this, let me know in the comments and maybe I'll repeat some of the other terrific images that came to us via the generosity of John Hinson in 2013.

Related:

• Houdini on the ropes
• A book that's bound to please
• Announcing the Hinson Endowment

Cover reveal! Escaping Obscurity: The Travel Diary of Harry Houdini, 1897-1899

Today, I'm excited to reveal the final cover of Escaping Obscurity: The Travel Diary of Harry Houdini, 1897-1899, which will be published by Mike Caveney's Magic Words. The talented Michael Albright designed the cover and book.

The book runs 376 pages and contains over 200 images. Every page of Houdini's first diary from the collection of Dr. Bruce Averbook is reproduced, along with material from several other major magic collections, including the David Copperfield collection. I have annotated the entire diary so you can follow the remarkable story of Houdini's early career toiling in dime museums, circuses, medicine shows, and even seance chambers. The book contains a wealth of new information and tells the story of Houdini's early career like no other.

Attendees at this week's Magic Collector Expo in Las Vegas got a first look at the book. Below is a pic of publisher Mike Caveney with the unbound proof edition and some reactions below.

 

David Charvet: I shared a dealer booth with Mike at the Expo and was able to look at the proof copy of the book closely. In a word: SPECTACULAR.

Patrick Daniel: It is absolutely amazing!!!! I cannot wait to get a copy.  

Lance Rich: It's verrry cool. I haven't checked it out in depth.... but the slipcase and design are beautiful.  

Joe Notaro: It's truly amazing! Can't wait for it to come out!!

The book will be sold exclusively by Mike Caveney's Magic Words. The release date and price have yet to be determined. The hope is to have the book available in time for MAGIC Live in August, although it could be much sooner. I will give my Patreon supporters an early heads-up when the purchase link goes live. We expect the special edition to sell out fast!

Want more? I've shared the evolution of this cover design with some early concepts on my Patreon.

Thanks to Charles Greene III for the convention photo.

Related:

• Houdini diary book in the wild!
• You will soon be able to read Houdini's first diary
• Michael Albright to design the Houdini diary book

Houdini Legacy Card Deck Kickstarter

John B. Midgley, current President of the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.), has launched a Kickstarter campaign for a custom set of Houdini playing cards designed by Shawn Farquhar, past President of the International Brotherhood of Magicians. Proceeds from the Kickstarter will go to the Houdini grave restoration fund. It's a great-looking deck and a very worthy cause.

Click to view the Houdini Legacy Deck Kickstarter

Related:

• Houdini's grave is in trouble
• The Houdini-Weiss exedra turns 100
• Gladys and Leopold headstones return to Machpelah

Dorothy Dietrich honored in New York City

The great Dorothy Dietrich was honored at a special event at the Don't Blink Magic Shop in New York City on Saturday. Dorothy spoke about her career as a pioneering female magician and escape artist, and her lifelong devotion to Houdini. Robert Dadras organized the event.

Dorothy and Dick Brookz run the famed Houdini Museum in Scranton, PA. Dorothy is also the head of the S.A.M. committee that looks after Houdini's gravesite and is currently working to get the large crack in the exedra repaired in time for the 100th anniversary of Houdini's death next year.

Related:

• MUM celebrates Dorothy Dietrich
• Dorothy Dietrich and Dick Brookz honored by S.A.M.
• Dorothy Dietrich & Dick Brookz receive Milbourne Christopher Award

Houdini diary book in the wild!

If you are one of the lucky attendees of this year's Magic Collector Expo in Las Vegas, be sure to stop by the booth for Mike Caveney's Magic Words. Mike has a proof copy of our book, Escaping Obscurity: The Travel Diary of Harry Houdini, 1897-1899. Mike had this FedExed from the printer in China so expo attendees could have a special hands-on preview. 

I'm not at the expo this year, so attendees will be seeing the book before I do. Let me know what you think! I'll reveal the final cover here on Thursday. 

This year's expo includes a tour of David Copperfield's International Museum and Library of the Conjuring Arts. David was very kind in allowing us to use several rarities from his Houdini collection in Escaping Obscurity.

Related:

• You will soon be able to read Houdini's first diary
• Revealing Houdini's diary at MAGIC Live!
• Diary book update updated

Where Houdini wasn't

My Houdini mania has taken a strange new turn. I'm now getting excited about finding a city Houdini DIDN'T play. Because he almost did! Let me explain.

Recently, four unusually nice Houdini letters sold at RR auctions online. Among them was a letter to Faber Birren in Chicago in which Houdini included the route for his current vaudeville tour. What stood out to me was that the list showed Houdini playing a split week in Sacramento and Fresno starting March 25, 1923. 

That never happened. Houdini pulled a vanishing act and played Oakland this week instead. I don't know why his route changed, but it's likely Houdini was happy about it as it involved less travel. Oakland was a short hop over the bay from his previous booking in San Francisco, and a full week is better than a split.

However, this meant Houdini would never play Sacramento. He would have likely done a suspended straitjacket escape in the city as well. You were so close, Sacramento! But at least Sacramentans got to see Hardeen at the Pantages in 1908 and 1910. He even jumped off the Yolo bridge.

The Sacramento Bee, Nov. 9, 1908.

Of course, I wanted to know precisely where Houdini would have appeared had he played these dates. This was a little tricky to find as the Orpheum circuit never built its own theater in either city. They used existing theaters that changed over the years. But with some digging, I discovered that the Clunie Theater on 811 K Street was the home of Orpheum vaudeville in Sacramento at the time of Houdini's planned appearance. (They would move to the State Theater later that year.) Below is the only photo I could find of the Clunie.

www.performingartsarchive.com

Instead of Houdini, the Clunie featured William Gibson and Regina Connelli in the comedic skit "One Night in Spring" as the headliners. Gibson & Connelli also filled Houdini's spot in Fresno starting on March 29th. I'm sure they were the cat's pajamas!

In Fresno, Orpheum vaudeville was featured at the White Theater at 1317 Broadway. Houdini would give his spiritualism lecture at the White Theater on Oct. 26, 1924, so Houdini did eventually make it to Fresno, if only for one day.

The Fresno Morning Republican, Oct. 26, 1924.

Both theaters are now long gone.

Related:

• List of surviving Houdini theaters
• The Houdini way to San Jose
• Houdini and the Spiritualists with Ken Trombly

The Houdini Magical Hall of Fame fire 30 years ago today

Our friend Tom Interval at Interval Magic reminds me that today marks a grim anniversary. It was 30 years ago tonight that the Houdini Magical Hall of Fame in Niagara Falls, Canada, burned in a late fire. Among the Houdini rarities destroyed was the original Water Torture Cell. Below is the news as it appeared in The Toronto Star the following day.

The Toronto Star, May 2, 1995.

Do you remember when and where you learned the news that the Houdini Magical Hall of Fame was no more?

Related:

• Houdini Magical Hall of Fame site today
• Return to the Houdini Magical Hall of Fame
• Geno Munari Houdini collection lost in fire