On September 11 at 2:00 PM, the local chapters of the Society of American Magicians (SAM) and the International Brotherhood of Magicians (IBM) will unveil a historic marker in the courtyard at 10th and Main Streets in Kansas City commemorating the site of Houdini’s first suspended straitjacket escape on September 8, 1915. I've seen photos of the marker, and it's a stunner!
The public ceremony will feature remarks from the local SAM and IBM presidents and a reading of the Kansas City Proclamation signed by Mayor Quinton Lucas, officially recognizing September 2026 as Harry Houdini Month. I will also be on hand to say a few words. The unveiling ceremony will conclude with a live straitjacket escape performed by magician Lance Rich.
But wait, there's more!
Two days before the unveiling, on September 9 at 6:00 PM, I will be giving a one-hour lecture on "Houdini's Kansas City Connections" at the Kansas City Central Library, located just up the street from the site of Houdini’s 1915 escape. Kansas City has a lot of terrific Houdini history, and I'm looking forward to sharing the full story. You can find more details at kclibrary.org.
This project represents a longterm effort by the local SAM Bob Klamm Assembly 38 and IBM Heart of America Ring 129 to ensure Houdini’s Kansas City legacy is preserved. Funding for the historic marker has been provided through grants from the SAM Magic Endowment Fund and the IBM Endowment and Development Fund.
Hope to see you in Kansas City!
Nice! Did Houdini ever do a Spiritualism lecture in KC?
ReplyDeleteNot as far as I know.
DeleteI wish you the best of luck with your lecture John! - Abby Martin
DeleteThank you, Abby.
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