A.I. finally gets Houdini right and... Wow!

A.I. images of Houdini have been generally awful. However, an article today on the website 450.fm has A.I. images that finally get Houdini right. VERY right. I mean, wow! I also like that the website credits these as "AI images," which I think is the correct and ethical thing to do.

The top image shows Houdini in Masonic robes. However, this is Houdini circa 1917, and Houdini didn't become a Mason until 1923 when he looked somewhat different. But that's nitpicking. I'm pretty impressed with this, and I see now how A.I. opens the door to seeing images of Houdini that would otherwise not be possible. Houdini in the Hodgson restraints. Houdini tied to a canon. Houdini in the Sangow. Houdini smashing up the Houdina Co. Of course, a talented artist could do the same thing.

As far as A.I. generated Houdini facts go... Yeah, still terrible.

Related:

• Houdini A.I. is inaccurate, artless, and everywhere
• When AI generates your Houdini facts
• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason

Houdini Night with the Tropical Masonic Lodge #56

The Tropical Masonic Lodge #56 in Southwest Florida will present a special "Houdini Night" on June 18, 2024. This is an interactive lecture on the life and masonic career of Brother Harry Houdini, with a dinner and a meeting. It is open to Masonic friends and families.

Visit the "Houdini Night" Event page for more details.

Related:

• Houdini's Masonic 100th at The Invisible Lodge
• Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame
• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason 

Houdini's Masonic 100th at The Invisible Lodge

Last Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending a gala Masonic event at The Invisible Lodge to mark the 100th Anniversary of Houdini becoming a Freemason on July 17, 1923. The event was held at the Long Beach Scottish Rite Cathedral in Long Beach, California. Even though I'm not a Mason myself, I was able to attend as a guest.

The Invisible Lodge International was founded in 1953 by illusionist Sir Felix Korim. It is unique in that to join, one must be a Mason and a magician or a pursuer of an allied art form. Lee Grabel, John Calvert, Harry Blackstone Sr., Peter Reveen, Sid Radner, Carl Ballantine, and Herb Zarrow were all members. Not only was this night about celebrating Houdini, but was also a celebration of the 70th Anniversary of The Invisible Lodge.

The evening kicked off at 5pm at the Long Beach Scottish Rite Cathedral and Cultural Center, a magnificent building dedicated in September 1926 and today a historic landmark. I was greeted by Past Master and Invisible Lodge President JR Knight, who gave me a special Houdini 100th deck of cards and a Masonic Houdini coin made just for the occasion. Also looking after me and giving me the VIP treatment was Ralph Shelton, Past Master and current Grand Chaplin, and a skilled magician who regularly performs at the Magic Castle. Several attendees remembered me from the online Masonic Houdini symposium I had the pleasure of participating in back in June.

Drinks and dinner were served in the ballroom and I was honored to find myself seated beside Grand Master Randall Brill. A big deal! Dinner was delicious, and we were entertained at our tables by strolling magicians. Houdini posters were set up on the stage, along with a large mirror on a backdrop. More on that mirror later. It was now showtime!

On the second floor of the Scottish Rite Cathedral is a large theater. The proscenium reminded me of the surviving Houdini vaudeville houses I've visited. In fact, the entire building is filled with evocative history and references to famous Masons who called this building home, including actors Ernest Borgnine and Tom Mix. (Can you tell me the Houdini Tom Mix connection?) The evening's show was emceed by Adam Hanin and featured magic performances by Eric Lampert, Ralph Shelton, and David Benitez aka Marsan the Magician. It was a terrific show.

I was then in for a rare treat. We all moved into a conference room lined with portraits of U.S. presidents who were also Masons, including Houdini's pal, Theodore Roosevelt. Here several new members were initiated. The Invisible Lodge is unique in that, being a club, they are able to invite guests to such events. However, parts of the ceremony that revealed some Masonic secrets were omitted. It was fascinating to think I was witnessing what Houdini went through 100 years ago at his own Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York. While ritualistic, the ceremony was loose and I was struck by just how much fun the members have together.

It was then back to the theater for what was billed as a "world record attempt for the most simultaneous escapes." Twenty-three members received lessons in how to escape from a Siberian Transport Chain (now more commonly called the "Houdini Chain Escape") and did so on stage while one new member had to contend with a 100-foot rope tie. I'm happy to report that everyone escaped and the world record was secured!

It was after 11pm, but the evening was still not over. It was back down to the ballroom, which was now set up for a midnight Houdini seance. JR would conduct the seance and also give demonstrations of psychic power. While JR did some prep, I was happy to answer questions about Houdini for the attendees.

Somehow I never realized until that day that Houdini became a Mason on the 10th anniversary of his mother's death. Certainly, Houdini would have been aware of this as July 17 was a sacred date for him. Was this just a coincidence? Or did Houdini request that be the day he joined the Order? Maybe he would tell us tonight.

The seance proceeded at midnight. JR created a script using excerpts from the 1936 Final Houdini Seance and the 2004 Official Houdini Seance conducted by Invisible Lodge member Peter Reveen. Pomp and Circumstance and Rosie, Sweet Rosabel played while JR called on Brother Houdini to return. I don't know if it was the late hour, the building's energy, or the haunting strains of Rosabel, but there seemed to be a real spirit present. I took pictures. But they all, spookily, turned out like this.

Earlier, I mentioned that there was a large mirror set up on the ballroom stage. During the seance, it was covered with a cloth. Near the end of the seance, the cloth mysteriously dropped and...well...you'll have to be a member of my own secret society on Patreon to see what happened next:

Members lingered after the seance, but I was dead tired, so I bid my goodbyes and headed back to LA. It was a full evening to be sure, but what a wonderful time. Everyone was so welcoming and warm and excited to show me their building and share their club. I learned that Masons are charitable, civil, civic-minded, dedicated to camaraderie and community, and true custodians of history and tradition. They are also far less secretive than people think. No, I don't believe Masons secretly control the world. But from what I experienced on Sunday, maybe they should!

Thanks to JR Knight, Ralph Shelton and Randall Brill for making me feel so welcome and for honoring Houdini. To learn more about Masonry, visit https://freemason.org.

Related:

• The Invisible Lodge celebrates Brother Houdini, July 16
• Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame
• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason

The Invisible Lodge celebrates Brother Houdini, July 16

The Invisible Lodge will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of Houdini becoming a Mason and their own 70th Anniversary with a gala event at the Long Beach Scottish Rite Cathedral in Long Beach, California, on July 16, 2023. The event is open to Masons and non-Masons. Below are details for what sounds like a terrific evening.

For more information and to purchase tickets visit The Invisible Lodge website or send an email to theinvisiblelodge@gmail.com.

I have my ticket and I'm looking forward to attending. Hope to see you there!

Related:

• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason 
• Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame
• Scottish Rite Journal reveals Houdini the Mason

Discover Houdini the Mason online event

I'm excited to have been added to the panel for this Masons of California online event celebrating Houdini the Mason next Wednesday, June 28. This event is free and open to the public, all you need to do is register HERE.

On June 28, in observance of the the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s being raised as a Master Mason with St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York, the California Masonic Symposium turns its attention to the renowned magician, mystic, and Mason. The discussion will be led by Grand Master of California Randall L. Brill.

Hope to see you there!

Related:

• Masons of California remember Bro. Houdini, June 28
• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason 
• Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame

Masons of California remember Bro. Houdini, June 28

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Houdini becoming a Mason. On June 28, the Masons of California with celebrate Brother Houdini with a special online event. Below are details.

There is nothing more captivating than the illusion of magic. From daring disappearing acts to death-defying escapes, magic has always been a profound spectacle that entertains and enthralls.

No one mastered that art better than Harry Houdini (1891–1926). An American-Hungarian immigrant, his humble beginnings and captivation with escapism inspired him to become the most famous and influential magician of all time.

On June 28, in observance of the the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s being raised as a Master Mason with St. Cecile Lodge No. 568 in New York, the California Masonic Symposium turns its attention to the renowned magician, mystic, and Mason. The discussion will be led by Grand Master of California Randall L. Brill.

In addition to exploring the life and Masonic career of Bro. Houdini, the symposium will include a panel discussion of experts diving into a litany of ties between magic and Masonry. What is magic’s relevance to Freemasonry today? How important is showmanship in our ritual What is the magical connection between Freemasonry and the ritual? Certainly the connections are more than just passing: The Grand Lodge of California recently formed a new lodge made up entirely of magicians, in Ye Olde Cup & Ball No. 880. Additionally, the Invisible Lodge is an international group of magician-Masons. But how are the practices of magic and Masonry related—and what philosophical ideas underpin them both?

This online event is free and open to everyone. For more information and to register visit  https://freemason.org/symposium/.

Related:

• Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame
• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason 
• Houdini lying in state at Elks Lodge #1

Houdini named to the Masonic Hall of Fame

The Scottish Rite Masonic Museum & Library (SRMML) have inducted Houdini into The Masonic Hall of Fame: Extraordinary Freemasons in American History, on display through October 25, 2024, at Supreme Council headquarters in Lexington, Massachusetts. The Hall of Fame exhibition honors Masons, both past and present, who have made outstanding contributions to American history. 

The year's other inductees are: Franklin Delano Roosevelt; Thurgood Marshall; the Mayo brothers, and Paul Revere. Not bad company!

This year marks the 100th anniversary of Brother Houdini joining the order.

Thanks to Delmar Proctor for the alert.

Related:

• Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason 
• Scottish Rite Journal reveals Houdini the Mason
• Remembering Brother Houdini

Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason

Recently I shared a link to an article about Houdini in the Jan-Feb 2021 Scottish Rite Journal, a magazine devoted to Freemasonry. The author, Maynard Edwards, got in touch, and explained that in the time it took to the publish that piece, he had continued his research and made several new discoveries and some corrections. So today I'm excited to share his updated article which rewrites what we know about Houdini the Mason. Enjoy.

Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason

Recent Revelations in the Masonic Career of Brother Harry Houdini 

by Maynard Edwards, KCCH

On any list of famous Freemasons, Brother Harry (Houdini) is sure to be found. He was raised in St. Cecile Lodge #568 in New York on August 21,1924. St. Cecile Lodge was (and still is) a Daylight Lodge, geared specifically towards those in the performing arts, who often would not be able to attend evening meetings.

For at least the last thirty years, it has been reported that Harry became a Shriner shortly before his untimely death in 1926 and dates for his Scottish Rite Membership were not recorded publicly. However, a recent discovery at Mecca Shrine allows us to cement both his Scottish Rite and Shrine initiation dates much earlier than previously reported.

Mecca & The Mystifier

In March 2019, while cleaning up their office in the Grand Lodge of New York, Members of Mecca Shrine discovered a door hidden behind an old filing cabinet. The door led to a locker room and a curious discovery. The Current Assistant Rabban of Mecca Shrine in New York City, Noble Zachary Ostrow (right) explains "There was a big green locker that just had Mecca Shrine scribbled on the front of it. I don’t think anyone knew it had noticed it at least since the eighties. In there we found books full of Lodge records including petitions. The petitions were all numbered so we knew which ones were missing. After a few days of going through those books I found Houdini’s petition and it shows that he became a member in 1924. All the history books say 1926, and so people have gotten upset with me for finding this and making them have to re-write the history books."

The petition is signed by Houdini, and in his own handwriting he states his occupation as "Author – Lecturer - Mystifier". Conclusively we can now document that Harry Houdini became a Noble of Mecca Shrine on December 29th, 1924. Houdini became a Scottish Rite Mason in the Valley of New York Lodge of Perfection on October 7th 1924, joined the Council of Princes of Jerusalem on December 16th, and entered the Consistory on December 23rd.

Image courtesy Maynard Edwards.

Houdini was 50 years old when he became a Mason, but his experience in fraternal organizations began in 1903 when he became a member of the fledgling Society of American Magicians. The group had started only the year before with just 24 members in the back of a New York City magic shop. A rift with another prominent member of the club would cause Harry to resign in 1908, but by 1915 fences had been mended and Houdini was from then on an avid supporter of the group. He would be elected SAM President from 1917 until his death (interestingly, as President of S.A.M., Harry and other officers were referred to by the the title Most Illustrious).

When performing in a particular town, it was often Harry’s habit to connect with the local magicians and there are many surviving letters of his correspondence with fellow illusionists. It may have been such a connection that caused Harry to first mention an interest in Freemasonry.

My Dear Buckle

A postcard sent from Harry Houdini to a Mr. A. Buckle in 1904 was recently sold by the world famous Potter & Potter auction house in Chicago. The type written postcard, which sold for $900, reads:

My Dear Buckle,
Am very busy, have a very big task Tomorrow, and do not feell [sic] very much like writing. Regarding me being a Mason, I regret to inform you that I am not a Mason, and hope some day to belong to that Order. I do not belong to any secret order, and am a member of the S. of A. Magicians, and an Artist club in Germany.
Regards
Houdini.

The “A. Buckle” in this case was 20-year old Manchester Magician Arthur Buckle, sometimes billed as the Manchester Wizard. Buckle’s career consisted of mostly of private performances and writing for magical trade publications. The relationship between the then 30-year old Houdini and the younger conjurer isn’t well-documented, but it would not be a stretch to assume that as magicians they would have made each other’s professional acquaintance and become friends. The postcard salutation “My Dear Buckle” and another surviving letter from Houdini to Buckle indicate a personal relationship.

The postcard itself is remarkable for several reasons. First, the date of the postcard is March 16th, only a day before the famous Daily Mirror Handcuff Challenge, and the writing clearly indicates the challenge was on his mind. Also, Houdini expresses that he did not feel like writing. We know Houdini was troubled by an unknown illness during the end of his Hippodrome engagement and not long after the handcuff challenge, Harry was forced to take 12 days bed rest, canceling a number of engagements. Does this note indicate he was already feeling ill? Finally of course, it does seem to be the first documented expression of Houdini’s interest in Freemasonry.

While the postcard only reveals one side of the conversation between the two magicians, from it we can suppose that Arthur Buckle was a Mason and had asked if Houdini was a Mason, perhaps even inviting him to Lodge. In a collection of Houdini papers at the University of Texas in Austin, there exist other letters between Houdini and Buckle that may reveal more details, however as of this writing, those letters are not accessible due to the COVID-19 crisis.

Masonic & Magical Legacy

It would be another twenty years before Houdini’s interest in Freemasonry would manifest itself into his petitioning a lodge. Perhaps the business of being an international celebrity kept Houdini from joining the Brotherhood sooner rather than later? Or perhaps being elected President of the Society of American Magicians in 1917 increased his interest in fraternal organizations? We can only speculate as to why two decades elapsed before he was raised, his reasons are just one of the many secrets the Great Harry Houdini took to his grave.

There are no known photos of Harry in any Masonic garb, and his blue lodge petition, though not in question, has yet to be located. According to several Masonic sources, it is alleged that sometime after he became a Mason, Harry gave a benefit performance for for the Scottish Rite Valley of New York before a sold-out crowd of more than 4000 spectators at the Scottish Rite Cathedral (formerly the Manhattan Opera House, currently the Manhattan Center). However, no contemporary reports of this performance have been located, and no references to any such fundraiser has been found in any official Scottish Rite transaction. This leaves much doubt as to whether or not the performance truly occurred or perhaps was somehow conflated with another similar performance at some other time and place.

However, after his untimely death in 1926, Masonic funeral rites were performed by the Brothers of St. Cecile’s Lodge- which incidentally was held at the Elks clubhouse in New York (Harry became an Elk in 1912).

A great many vaudevillian performers were members of the Craft. Several of Harry’s Magical contemporaries were taken and accepted including Harry Kellar, Howard Thurston and even William Ellsworth Robinson- better known by his stage name Chung Ling Soo. As traveling performers, the Masonic Brotherhood would have provided vaudevillians with sort of safety-net while on the road. So too, the fraternity may have lent some of its dignity to a professional class that had historically been looked down upon.

Today the legacy of Houdini and the other Magical Masons of his era lives on in the Invisible Lodge, a Masonic club specifically for Master Masons who are either professional or amateur magicians. Founded in 1953 the club meets annually at midnight either at local Magician’s conventions or more recently at the Magic Castle in Hollywood. The Magic Castle itself is a private club for magicians and regularly members gather to hold a séance in an effort to contact the spirit of none other than Harry Houdini; so far the even the Great Houdini has not managed to reach back from the other side.

*Ill. Brent Morris, 33 and Jeff Croteau, Director of Library & Archives at the Scottish Rite Masonic Museum and Library in Lexington Massachusetts contributed to this article.

Related:

• Scottish Rite Journal reveals Houdini the Mason
• Houdini lying in state at Elks Lodge #1
• Remembering Brother Houdini

Scottish Rite Journal reveals Houdini the Mason

The January-February 2021 issue of Scottish Rite Journal, a magazine devoted to Freemasonry, has a cover story about Houdini's involvement with the Order. "The Sorcerer's Entered Apprentice" is written by Maynard Edwards and is well researched.

I'm not sure where one gets Scottish Rite Journal, but you can read the issue in full at the Scottish Rite website. Just keep it secret!

UPDATE: The author of this article has provided a revised and updated version as a Guest Blog HERE.

Related:

• Yes, Houdini was a Mason
• Remembering Brother Houdini
• Houdini lying in state at Elks Lodge #1

Houdini's wagon wheel rolls away with $4,200

The wagon wheel that came from the basement of Houdini's 278 sold today at Potter & Potter's Magic Collection of Jim Rawlins Part IV auction for $4,200 (not including the buyer's premium). This was the only 278 artifact to sell in today's auction. The two sinks, wine press, and bathtub received no bids.

The medicine chest from 278 did sell for $1,600 in Haversat & Ewing's auction last week.

Some other Houdini standouts in today's Potter auction was a photo of Houdini hog-tied in chains ($3,200); five behind the scenes photos from The Grim Game plane accident ($2,200); a unique autograph album ($4,200); a pair of Cummings handcuffs ($4,200); a German Bell Padlock ($3,400); a photograph of Houdini and Ching Ling Foo ($2,200); and a curious postcard written the day before the Mirror Challenge in which Houdini expresses his wish to one day become a Mason ($900).

A magnificent photo of Houdini emerging from a safe sold for $1,400. I was the unbidder on that one.

In other auction news, a Mastery Mystery Episode 10 poster sold for a reported $43,200 in a recent online Heritage Auction.

Congrats to all the buyers and sellers!

Related:

• Relics from Houdini's 278 at auction
• Is there a Houdini prop in the basement of 278?
• Presto! A new Houdini photo appears

Duffy Hudson brings Houdini to life in South Pasadena

Last night I had the pleasure of attending Duffy Hudson's one man performance as Houdini at the annual meeting of the Friends of the South Pasadena Public Library in beautiful South Pasadena (where Houdini once visited the Huntington Library). It was a terrific show. His hour plus performance was extremely well researched and structured, delivering equal amounts of magic, drama, and information about Houdini's life in a unique way. Duffy clearly gave it his all and received standing ovation for his efforts.

The Community Room in downtown South Pasadena was jam-packed with people of all ages (the event was advertised as "free and family friendly"). Duffy made his entrance as "Harry Houdini" bound in a period straitjacket. As he struggled to escape, he recounted the early days of Ehrich Weiss. When he spoke of how Ehrich one day poured coins into his mother's lap, coins sprung from his straitjacket as he finally broke free. Nice.

Hudson is an actor who specializes in one man shows (he also does Einstein, Edgar Allen Poe and George Burns), so all his "recollections" where infused with dramatic flair. His description of the torturous Hodgson challenge was a standout for me. He pantomimed the entire ordeal; his vivid depiction of how Houdini was thrust up in shackles by the strong man would have made Patrick Culliton proud (Pat's the great authority on the Hodgson challenge). By the time he bounded free, it was as if I was there in Blackburn applauding Houdini's escape.

Hudson also brought to life the Mirror Challenge (including liberating himself from his coat while cuffed), the Buried Alive, and his ordeal being trapped under the ice of a frozen river. Yes, this last one is a fiction, but Houdini himself would tell this story, so you can't really fault him for including it. And I was impressed that he located the escape in Pittsburg, as Houdini would tell it, instead of Detroit as established in Kellock (and Curtis). This told me Duffy knew his subject and really took pains to be Houdini that night.

Duffy also performed magic as part of the show. He teased out a terrific card trick and did the Needles as part of his finale. At one point he invited the whole audience to hold their breath as long as he, Houdini (3 minutes). Incredibly, one man in the audience did it!

Missing from the evening were mentions of Houdini's aviation and movie careers. Also, being Houdini, he couldn't necessarily recount his the details of his own death. But nothing felt lacking. There were many young people in the audience, and unless their parents explained to them the nature of the show, it's amusing to think how may will carry forward a memory of once "seeing Houdini."

Afterwards, people lingered and there were pockets of conversation about Houdini. I introduced myself to Duffy and was flattered that he was familiar with my blog and it had aided in his research. Up close, I could see he was wearing a Masonic pin on the lapel of his tuxedo jacket. Like Houdini, Duffy is a Mason, so this was a nice authentic touch.

I learned about this show last minute, so I felt lucky to have attended, and was happy to come away with one of the show posters the library was handing out. I didn't get great photos, but there was a photographer there from South Pasadena Now, so maybe some better images will show up online.

Here's hoping we will be seeing more of Duffy Hudson as Houdini.

Related:

• Duffy Hudson plays Houdini tonight in South Pasadena
• Houdini vs. Hodgson in Weird Fiction Review #3
• Trapped under the ice with Houdini

Guest blog: Mr. Houdini Goes to Washington, Part III

Today we have the conclusion of Neil McNally's fascinating examination of Houdini's testimony before Congress in 1926. Will Houdini triumph over the "rabid" mediums of Washington D.C.?

Act Three: Fighting the Good Fight...

As we return to the proceedings, it’s worth noting that Houdini had been through a lot throughout these hearings. While he may have been accustomed to a well-deserved red carpet being extended to him before, what he faced here was a room of cold and apathetic Congressional Representatives. Many of them it seemed were unimpressed by his over thirty years of experience and expertise in magic, sleight of hand, and, most importantly, spiritualism.

However, Harry Houdini had dealt with much, much worse in his long career. So, when the hearings adjourned in May of 1926 he had brought with him a special weapon. It was a weapon that had been by his side for many years, and one that he truthfully valued beyond any pick, lock, or key. Her name was Beatrice Rahner, but in the annals of magic history she was known simply as Bess.

Houdini: (to the Representatives) My religion and my belief in the Almighty have been assailed. I stated yesterday that I do believe in the Almighty. I have always believed and I will always believe. I am a Mason, and you must believe in God to be a Mason. My character has been assailed. I would like to have as witness here Mrs. Houdini.

(Laughter from the audience)

Step this way Mrs. Houdini. One of the witnesses said I was a brute and that I was vile and I was crazy. Won’t you step this way? I want the chairman to see you. I will have been married on June 22nd, 32 years to this girl…There are no medals and no ribbons on me, but when a girl will stick to a man for 32 years as she did and when she will starve with me and work with me through thick and thin, it is a pretty good recommendation. Outside of my great mother, Mrs. Houdini has been my greatest friend. (To Bess) Have I shown traces of being crazy, unless it was about you?

(More laughter from the audience)

Bess: No
Houdini: Am I brutal to you or vile?
Bess: No
Houdini: Am I good boy?
Bess: Yes.
Houdini: Thank you Mrs. Houdini.

(The audience applauds)

To say this exchange was not a calculated move on Houdini’s part is a vast understatement. With three simple words, Bess Houdini continued a long tradition of assisting her husband in times of dire need. While in this particular case their conversation was firmly tongue and cheek, it gives readers an endearing glimpse of how much Houdini loved and respected his wife. To hear him use the words “best friend” to describe her is a prime example of some of the many unique treasures this transcript holds.

Considering that the hearings were being held in Washington D.C., it’s ironic that the testimony eventually turned to one of the country’s founding fathers, Abraham Lincoln. As Lincoln was long rumored to have been interested in spiritualism, Houdini addresses the subject after Jane Coates let it cryptically slip earlier that some of D.C.’s most influential politicians, along with President Warren G. Harding himself, weren’t adverse to visiting mediums for some “otherworldly” advice.

Henry R. Rathbone (Illinois): Mr. Houdini, just a question or two, if you please. The question about Abraham Lincoln and his beliefs is brought up. I do not think it’s material to this bill, but you say you have investigated it and you know he was not a spiritualist.
Houdini: His son says so. I will read it if you wish (A letter from Robert Lincoln, Abraham Lincoln’s last surviving son, to Houdini). It is written to me and dated September 28, 1925. The importance of that is that they (the spiritualists) always use a great man’s name to get converts.
Rathbone: I think you will all agree who know about Abraham Lincoln that he was not a spiritualist as spiritualism is understood. Abraham Lincoln, if the authorities are correct at all, did believe and seek a number of times in his life, and spoke on the morning of his last day, of having a premonition of coming death. Is it your understanding that that has any relation to spiritualism?
Houdini: I believe in premonition absolutely, but, not in spiritualism…I believe in the subconscious mind, in the hereafter, in the Almighty God. But, I do not believe that the disembodied spirit can come back and do the things that the mediums claim that they can do…I have no malice against any mediums. They say I am quarrelling with their religion but that is their smoke screen…The money they charge means nothing. It is only the opening wedge to get fortunes, to get hold of some old man or lady and bring back (their) beloved dead.

It’s obvious from the preceding paragraph that while he denied it, Houdini rightfully did hold malice towards the spiritualist campaign and their actions against the innocent. In fact, as the hearing neared its end Houdini’s patience was tested when a line of bizarre, rapid, and suspicious questioning was directed at him by William C. Hammer of North Carolina.

Hammer: The original Houdini was a Hindu was he not?
Houdini: No.
Hammer: You are Houdini the second?
Houdini: No.
Hammer: You are the original Houdini?
Houdini: No, the original Houdini was a French clockmaker
Hammer: I thought he lived in Allahabab.
Houdini: Are you joking?
Hammer: No sir. I am in earnest.
Houdini: His name was (Robert) Houdin. My name is Houdini….
Hammer: You said the other day that you were the president of the Magician’s Association of America.
Houdini: Society of American Magicians….
Hammer: Is it a secret organization?
Houdini: No, only regarding our exploits…
Hammer: Is your father living?
Houdini: No, has this anything do with this bill?...I know you are asking spiritualistic questions and I want to let you know I know it.
Hammer: It is contended that you are a medium and do not know it. These people really believe that you have divine power and that you won’t admit it. That is the reason I am asking you these questions.
Houdini: Pardon me.
Hammer: Have you ever been in Allahabab?

The questioning continues on in a similar circuitous nature until Houdini reaches the limit of what even he can take.

Houdini: You did not get those (questions) out of the air! Why are you asking me those peculiar, irrelevant questions? They haven’t anything to do with the bill and are not the kind of questions that a man in your position would ask. They were given to you by some rabid medium and I am surprised you should ask me (them)…You did not get them out of your head.
Hammer: That is all right as to where I got them, but I did not get them from any spiritualist and I did not get them from any divine power either…

And in the End…

As one turns the pages of the transcript, it’s all hard to know where it will all lead. As Houdini sat there about to present his closing statements to the assembled parties he had to have wondered the very same thing. However, as the transcript shows even without his standard arsenal of tricks Houdini was always true to himself and the moral bigger picture at hand.

Houdini: Mr. Chairman, I think there has been enough said. In closing my support for the bill I wish to say that there are 500,000 vote less people here in the District of Columbia. The law as presented there positively does not interfere with anyone’s religious beliefs. They do put jokers in laws the way they have in a number of states, and there is one that I would like to warn the committee against. When I say warn I want to amend that…Now here is the joker in the law placed in there by the spiritualistic associations:

Provided: That the provisions of this act shall not be construed to include, prohibit, or interfere with the exercise of the spiritual functions or office of any priest, minister, or accredited representative of any religion. And Provided Further: That the provisions of this act shall not be construed to include or refer to the practice of the belief known as spiritualism or to any attempt at communication with the spirit world by or through these occult mediums.

I claim Mr. Chairman, and ladies and gentlemen, that this absolutely gives the spiritualist a 100% power to tell fortunes and do everything. One counteracts the other.

What eventually became of the bill? Had spiritualism had its day in the sun? Was Houdini, as usual, victorious in the face of adversity? Sadly, not this time. For reasons still speculated on today, Bill H.R. 8989 did not pass into law and stands as one Houdini’s few failures. Perhaps, as it seemed, politicians and mediums did make likely bedfellows after all.

Regardless of the outcome, Houdini simply and matter- of-factly stated that he had “performed a public service by exposing fraudulent mediums who prayed on the vulnerable, gullible, and bereaved.” In a modern age where fictional heroes light up our movies screens and comic books, it’s comforting to know that once upon a time there was a real flesh and blood hero who used his experience in dime museums, theaters, and séance parlors to benefit society’s greater good. For these reasons alone, it’s hard not to see what made “The Great Houdini” truly great!

Houdini at the White House.

Please join me in thanking Neil McNally for this terrific three part series. And be sure to visit Neil's website at neilmcnallywriter.com to see his other work.

This weekend I'll continue the theme of Houdini in Washington D.C. with a look back at his very first visit in January 1906 and his most spectacular jail escape.

Related:

• Guest blog: Mr. Houdini Goes to Washington, Part I
• Guest blog: Mr. Houdini Goes to Washington, Part II
• Read Houdini's D.C. hearing transcript

Houdini lying in state at Elks Lodge #1

This is said to be the only known photo of Houdini's open casket lying in state at the New York Elks Lodge #1 on 43rd street. This was the last viewing of Houdini before he was taken to Machpelah Cemetery. This photo has never been published and was provided to me by a collector of Elk material who wishes to remain anonymous.

Click to enlarge.

Along with this remarkable photo comes a remarkable story. According to our source, Houdini's body arrived at the building at 9AM on November 4 in his glass-topped bronze "show coffin." But the Elks purchased another coffin, a traditional wooden coffin, and placed the bronze coffin inside of that for the viewing. Houdini was then given last rites by two Rabbis, and also received traditional Masonic Rites.

Some 2000 people then filed past the open casket (which gave a view of the glass-topped casket inside). After the last person left the building, the Elks removed the bronze coffin and carried it to the front door of the lodge room. There they handed it over to the pallbearers who carried it down the stairs, through the lobby, and out the front door to the waiting hearse. What's interesting is our source says the Elks placed flowers over the top of the casket to hide the glass top and obscure any view of the body inside. Indeed, in all the film footage of Houdini's casket being transported to Machpelah, the entire top is covered with flowers or foliage of some kind.

But the story doesn't end there. The Elks kept the wooden casket they had used that day, and after a few months in storage, they put it on display in the lobby roped off with a portrait of Houdini. As NY #1 was a private clubhouse, it was only ever seen by members. The Elks would also use the coffin during initiation ceremonies. The candidate/initiated would be blindfolded, placed inside Houdini's coffin, and carried up the stairs into the lodge room while a pipe organ played a funeral march. There it would be opened and the candidate asked if he wished to continue. (Our source emphasizes that the Elks do not do these kinds of initiations today.)

After the Elks lost the building in 1934, Houdini's coffin was moved to a few different locations, before settling at the Elks Temple in North Tonawanda, N.Y. There it was kept, and possibly displayed, until the building burned down in 2010-11.

Wild stuff, eh?

Now, I can't personally vouch for this photo's authenticity. All I can do is trust our source and share what he shared with me. But the photo is definitely the inside of NY #1, and was identified as Houdini's funeral by high ranking Elks in a position to know. The details of the funeral where taken from actual Elk meeting minutes. Also, our source sends over this photo of Houdini's gold Elks Club membership card case. Just another secret Houdini Elks artifact that has remained unseen...until now.

Postscript: Because I expect this will prompt some discussion in our Comments, below are the two other photographs said to be Houdini in death. One comes from a morticians trade magazine and is captioned as being Houdini at the West End Funeral Chapel (this photo also appears in The Secret Life of Houdini). The other is a personal photo from the collection of Jon Oliver. On it Bess has written: "This is the last photo of Houdini."

Click to enlarge.

UPDATE: You can see the uncovered casket as it was lowered into the ground HERE. There's also a reference to this Elks Card Case in a letter from Kit Clarke to Houdini dated May 14, 1918. Clarke writes: "That was very nice of the Elks to present you with a diamond studded case for your card."

Related:

• Houdini the Elk
• Uncovering Houdini's THIRD air-tight container test and death casket
• Is this Houdini in death?
• The man who embalmed Houdini

Houdini's Bibles

Houdini had several Bibles in his home. The oldest one appears to be this Hebrew-German Bible that belonged to his father and contains Rabbi Weiss' name on the title page along with an inscription by Houdini. The story of the discovery of this remarkable Bible appears on MagicTricks.com:

In the summer of 1986, magician Peter Monticup was performing at a resort in the New York Catskills. During an afternoon break, he took a drive into the countryside, and stopped at a barn sale. As always, he did a trick or two for the amusement of the people there, and handed out his business card. The barn owner/antique dealer immediately piped up, "Oh, I've got something you might like to purchase!"

A few minutes later, the woman handed Peter a cardboard box containing some framed photos, and a large book. The photos were personal portraits of Harry Houdini and his wife, Bess, portraits they kept on display in their home. The book was a Hebrew-German bible, signed by Houdini and his father.

In fact, the bible had been signed three times on the front page by Houdini. He wrote his name once in the middle of the page, then wrote the notation, "My father Rev. Dr. M.S. Weiss bequeathed all his books to me." He added his initials to that note. Underneath, he added, "The above is his signature. He passed away October 5- 1892. Harry Houdini". At the top of the page is the signature of his father, Rev. Dr. M. Samuel Weiss.

The bible was in the Monticup collection until February 1993, when it was sold through Swann Galleries in New York. In 2003, it was sold again through Swann Galleries, this time for an astounding $52,900! It is now a permanent part of a major private magic collection. (Text and photo courtesy of MagicTricks.com.)

At $52,900, I bet we might be able to guess which "major private collection" now holds this Houdini Bible, you think?

Another Houdini Family Bible (Old Testament) published in Hebrew and English was profiled by Masonic Historian Paul Scheeler in the Fall/Winter 2005 Illinois Freemasonry magazine. That Bible appears to have belonged to Bess who gave it to Jerold Horwitz, a close friend, after Houdini's death. The Bible now belongs to his son, Charles Horwitz. Below is Paul's article which he has generously allowed me to share here:

Click to enlarge.

A third Houdini Bible is housed in a the McManus-Young Collection, Rare Book and Special Collections Division of the Library of Congress. This was also owned by Rabbi Weiss and also contains his name inside. (The decline in his penmanship compared to the earlier Bible might be telling.) This is a German Bible containing both the Old and New testaments published in New York in 1892, the year Rabbi Weiss died. It also has his business card inside. The photo below is from the LOC website by way of Carnegie: Magic Detective.

Interestingly, there is yet another "Houdini Bible" due to be auctioned at Potter and Potter this month (February 8) as part of the Burton S. Sperber magic collection. But this is a "tricked" Bible. The auction description is below:

Houdini, Harry (Ehrich Weisz). The Houdini Bible. Specially bound 1901 Red Letter Edition of the Holy Bible published by the World Syndicate Company, New York. Black leather, spine gilt stamped. Page edges colored red as issued. 8vo.

Outwardly, the tome appears to be an ordinary Bible, but in fact it was manufactured to Houdini’s specifications in a particular manner. The preparation of the book allowed Houdini to perform the following: a spectator was invited to turn to any page in the bible, and begin reading silently. Instantly, Houdini would know the words that the spectator was reading. One spot at base of spine rubbed and cracking, a few page-edges nicked, otherwise fine condition. Owned by Harry Houdini.

According to the authority on magicians forcing books, William Kuethe, “...there were probably four or five bibles manufactured at Houdini’s request...” (The Magic Bookman, 1974). Only three are known today, of which this is one.
8,000/10,000 - View auction on LiveAuctioneers.com
UPDATE: Sold for $20,000 ($24,000 including premium at 20%).

So there's your rundown of Houdini Bibles. Of course, here's the only Bible in my home:

The gospel of Ken.

Thanks to Paul Scheeler for inspiring this post. Follow him on Twitter @paulscheeler.

UPDATE: A new Houdini Bible has surfaced! Check out: The doctor, the nurse, and the Bible of Ehrich Weiss.

Remembering Brother Houdini

Recently I nabbed on eBay this February 1988 issue of the Masonic journal, Knight Templar, which contains Part 2 of an article about "Brother Houdini" by Sir Knight C. Clark Julius, York Commandrey No. 21, York, Pennsylvania (that's all Mason stuff). The cover features an uncommon shot of our favorite freemason in full Master Mystifier regalia. Nice.

Houdini was a member of the Cecile Lodge No 568 in New York City and a member of the Mecca Shrine Temple in New York City. His funeral included full Masonic rites.

The article in this magazine is called Escape and Survive and is a biography of Houdini with a few curious additions. Among them is the "rumor" that following Houdini's escape from the Siberian Transport Prison Cell in Russia, "several secret police officers were executed as a result." (!)

That's news to me; but who am I to question an ancient Order.

UPDATE: For the most up to date information on Houdini the Mason please see: Guest Blog: Author-Lecturer-Mystifier-Mason.

Report: The Official Houdini Séance 2012

Last Wednesday I had the extreme honor of attending and participating in the 2012 Official Houdini Séance in Fort Worth, Texas. The event was held at The Masonic Center on Halloween and was organized by mega collector Arthur Moses and Derek Kennedy in cooperation with William Radner. For me it was a non-stop two day mind-blowing journey into the world of Houdiniana like I've never experienced. I will try to sum it all up here with the help of some terrific images provided by some new friends I made on this trip.

Day 1

I flew into Fort Worth a day early and had the great pleasure of staying in the home of Arthur and Linda Moses. Having acclimated myself to living a shoe-box size apartment across from a bustling movie studio, staying in a big, beautiful, quiet suburban house was an unexpectedly wonderful experience in itself. Oh, it was also nice to step out my bedroom door and be greeted with a gigantic 8-sheet Houdini Buried Alive poster!

But nothing prepared me for Arthur's magnificent "Houdini Room." I had seen videos and photos of the room, but I was still knocked back on my heels when I stepped through the door. Below is a stitched together photo courtesy of Scott Wells of The Magic Word. And this is just the first floor!

The Houdini Room. Photo by Scott Wells.

Overwhelmed? I was too. In fact, after spending an hour going through the bookshelves and artifacts on the first floor (and recording this podcast with Arthur and Scott for Magic Word), I found I couldn't muster the psychic energy to tackle the second story where two more full rooms of treasures reside. But this was also because the evening guests had begun to arrive, and it was time to meet some legends.

Arthur had invited all the VIP ticket holders to come over and enjoy some genuine Texas BBQ and to see his collection. Among the VIP attendees was Tom Boldt of Appleton, Wisconsin, who has been integral in arranging the Official Houdini Séances along with Sidney Radner for many years. He is also a very nice guy. Also on hand was Robert Somerdin from Florida, a top collector of Houdiniana (and pin ball machines) who had me gaping at his descriptions of what is in his collection. I was also thrilled to meet William Radner, son of Sidney Radner, who had brought along many clippings and photos from his father's collection. After we had finished our BBQ, Bill brought out the legendary "Séance Cuffs". For those following me online (via Wild About Harry on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram), you saw this pic of the magic moment.

"Bill Radner, the Séance Cuffs, and Texas BBQ! It's on."

One disappointment for all of us was that Official Séance regulars Fred Pittella and Larry Weeks were unable to travel due to Hurricane Sandy and would not be able to take their traditional places at the séance table. I've never met these men and I was sorry I wouldn't get the chance on this trip. Hopefully I'll get another chance in the future.

Houdini's pajama pocket.

After we finished our delicious dinner, the group enjoyed Arthur's Houdini Room. Fortified by food, I was now able to take on the second story. Here I saw Houdini's pajama pocket -- which he was wearing when he died -- his wallet, a case full of pitchbooks, countless photos, original posters, and a solid wall of periodicals neatly filed and classified (remember Arthur is the author of the definitive Houdini Periodical Bibliography). Part of the fun of experiencing something like this collection is how you can be knocked out by not just the major stuff -- like the Houdini straitjacket or the Houdini sidewalk stand -- but little things as well. For example, Arthur has on his wall a photo of Houdini in shackles dressed in what appear to be circus tights. While I've seen photos of Houdini imitators in this kind of garb, I've never seen a photo of Houdini dressed this way. It really blew my mind.

In that same mind-blowing category was a menu and an actual boutonniere from Harry and Bessie's Silver Wedding Anniversary dinner at The Alexandria Hotel in Los Angeles. There was also a fascinating letter from Bernard Ernst to Houdini regarding Hardeen's "salary" that I will do a full blog post about in the future.

We all lingered late into the night, talking Houdini and enjoying the collection and company. Arthur also presented us with our special gift bags that included a very cool heavy duty antique-looking padlock with the 2012 Official Houdini Séance logo. Inner Circle members also got some beautiful padlock bookends. I finally fell into bed around 2AM, looking forward to THE big day.

Day 2 - Halloween

I rose around 8:30am and joined Arthur, Linda, and Scott Wells (who was also staying at Arthur's house) at the breakfast table in time to see Arthur's interview air on ABC's Good Morning Texas. It was a very good segment that showed off the Houdini Room and also promoted the seance event. I was thrilled to learn that there would be close to 200 people attending.

Arthur Moses and Scott Wells watch the Good Morning Texas report.

It was then time for me to earn my keep as I scooted around Fort Worth with Arthur, helping make final arrangements and set up the séance room at the stunning Masonic Center. Not only was this a visually exciting setting for a séance, but also appropriate in that Houdini himself was a Freemason. I also had the terrifying pleasure of helping Arthur load the priceless Houdini sidewalk stand into his van (it would be displayed, along with the Houdini straitjacket, at the event). I couldn't help but think of how Jim Collins and James Vickery might have carried the sign in exactly this same way to set up in front of a theatre. We're all still working for Mr. H!

The day seemed to fly by and before we knew it the event was suddenly upon us! Guests, dressed formally, began to arrive around 7pm. The VIP ticket holders gathered in the lower ballroom for cocktails and appetizers. I was scrambling to get all my equipment set-up and in working order in the main room, but I was still able to slip downstairs and enjoy the company and food. I knew my presentation was going up first, so I was pumped to finally see "my" audience.

The Masonic Center in Fort Worth, Texas.

The séance room (chamber?) was beyond amazing when it was all finished. The photo below, courtesy of Bill Radner, captures it somewhat; but factor in the eerie organ music by Michael Reed playing from the balcony, the flickering candles, the chairs draped in black, and the armed security guard standing by the sidewalk stand and straitjacket. (The huge Houdini straitjacket poster is actually a backdrop from the stageplay Ragtime and belongs to Ash Adams, who was the MC for the evening.) The atmosphere was incredible -- almost funeral-like -- and the nearly 200 assembled guests all seemed to be speaking in whispered tones. A perfect setting for a séance on Halloween!

The Official 2012 Houdini Seance. Photo by William Radner.

With everyone settled into their seats, the evening began with Master of Ceremonies, Ash Adams -- an award winning magician with over 20 years experience -- welcoming everyone and giving a brief history of the Masonic Temple and also about Houdini's two visits to Fort Worth in 1916 and 1923. Ash set a spooky Halloween mood and challenged Houdini, just as he had been challenged by the people of Fort Worth during his visits, to again make an escape tonight.

Ash then introduced me, and I presented what I called a Houdini History Presentation, but the official program carried the much more impressive title, "Understanding Houdini in the 21st Century." I was really eager to give a good, entertaining talk that would appeal to both the hardcore Houdini experts in the room as well as the general audience members who might not know a thing about Houdini. I think my presentation went over very well; aided greatly by a Keynote slide show where I was able to share several rare images, including a beautiful unpublished photo of Houdini and Bess provided by David Haversat and a terrific photo of Houdini being tied to a stake by two Native Americans provided by Jon Oliver (I also snuck in one of the unpublished bear trap photos from the Motion Picture Academy Library's Grim Game file).

Much to my relief, the length of my talk seemed to be exactly right (I feared I would go on forever -- I had 90 slides!). I then showed two pieces of film footage -- the 1907 Rochester bridge jump and the 5 minute clip from The Grim Game. The Grim Game footage was a last minute addition when I saw how well it went over at the Hollywood Egyptian screening last week. Including it was a good call. Once again, the audience gasped when the planes crashed.

MC Ash Adams on stage. Photo by William Radner.

Having accomplished my mission of filling everyone's head with as much Houdini history as I thought they could stand, I was happy to sit back and enjoy the rest of the program. Bill Radner took the stage next and spoke about his father and the importance of the séances throughout the years. He then showed a video clip of Sidney talking about the Bean Giants, the Séance Cuffs, and a special key Houdini used to unlock any handcuff. The audience seemed to really enjoy this, and it was a wonderful to have the great Sidney Radner there in the room with us.

Jamie Salinas. Photo by William Radner.

Following Bill came magician Jamie Salinas, a skilled sleight of hand artist and a regular performer at The Magic Castle, who did magic tricks and also escaped from a straitjacket, which received a terrific reception. Then came magician and sideshow entertainer Shel Higgens, who did a spectacular sword swallowing act balanced atop a free standing ladder. It was a unique performance that worked wonderfully well in the big hall and provided a real unexpected treat for the audience (and for me as I had no idea of what he was going to do).

Closing out the first half of the evening was the recording of Houdini's Voice, generously provided by Tom Interval of HoudiniMuseum.org. It was a perfect way to bring the theme of the evening back to the spirit of Houdini. Frankly, I think Houdini was watching over us all. I was amazed at just how our completely unrehearsed "show" came off without a single hitch and how each presenter seemed to compliment and blend into the next. It was a darn good show!

Then followed a 15 minute intermission in which the guests -- a little less intimidated by the room now -- took photos of themselves standing beside Arthur's Houdini memorabilia and the séance table. But now came the big event of the evening...

The Séance

Following intermission the guest all retook their seats. Ash Adams again set the mood, explaining in a very serious tone the "rules" of the séance. Each of the "Inner Circle" attendees, including myself, were introduced one by one. Filling in for Larry Weeks and Fred Pittella was our MC, Ash Adams, and Kathy Tayefeh of Magic Etc. who also runs a local Fort Worth Spook Show attraction and is highly sensitive to ghostly phenomena. We all remained standing behind our chairs as medium Scott Wells was introduced. He entered dramatically from the parted curtains onstage. Scott then took over, instructing us to take our seats. Under a single spotlight, Scott explained a little Houdini history and what we would be attempting to do tonight.

The Inner Circle participants.

The séance commenced and Scott attempted to contact the spirit of Houdini in a way that would have made Edward Saint proud. He also encouraged everyone at the table to speak up if they experienced anything unusual. During his pre-talk he also told the assembled crowd to share anything that happened to them after the seance.

Now, believe it or not, the séance was not without a few odd occurrences. A program on the table appeared to move, as did a chair up on stage. However, from where I was sitting, I didn't see either happen, so I can't speak to these. Kathy Tayefeh did see what she described as some kind of a red cloud or energy in an upper balcony. After the séance some audience members claimed they had also seen this. Directed to the spot, I said I could see the vague figure of a man perched at the rail peering down at the table. I thought this was pretty strange, until it was pointed out that there were people watching the séance from up there. Doh! (But, you know, when the lights came on, the people up on the balcony were NOT what I had seen during the séance. Not even close. Just saying...)

However, I think all the odd "phenomena" might have been evidence of the true power of suggestion and the intense and spooky atmosphere that had been so successfully conjured by Scott and everything about that room.

After a final appeal, Scott then closed the séance and the guests went downstairs to enjoy a final reception back in the ballroom. There Bill Radner told me he already had an idea about where to hold the séance next year and that I would definitely be invited to participate. (Yes!)

All in all, it was a spectacular evening and a very successful Official Houdini Seance, even if once again Houdini didn't join the show.

As the night drew to a close, I helped break down and transport some of the artifacts back to Arthur's house. I once again had the pleasurable terror of moving the Houdini sidewalk stand back into the Houdini Room.

I then settled back with a beer and enjoyed a post séance wrap-up conversation with Arthur, Scott, and Jamie Salinas (our newest house guest), until I literally couldn't keep my eyes open any longer.

Day 3

My last day would only be a half day, but it was still great fun. Joe Notaro, who runs Harry Houdini Circumstantial Evidence and had come out from Los Angeles for the event, joined us at Arthur's house for breakfast and Scott Wells conducted a wrap-up podcast with the group. We then went into the Houdini Room, where I got to enjoy seeing Joe have the same near heart-attack reaction to the room that I had had. With time running out, I poured through a few final binders of amazing Houdini artifacts, but I never really scratched the surface of Arthur's amazing collection. In fact, I never even touched the full wall of Houdini periodicals. Maybe next time.

We then had some fun putting on Jamie's straitjacket and posing in front of the Houdini sidewalk stand.

The Great Houdinis: Moses, Notaro, Wells and Cox.

It was agony when noon arrived and we had to leave for the airport. As we were both heading back to LA, Joe and I traveled together in my little (Toyota Yaris) rocket of a rental car. But it was on this 40 minute drive to the Dallas-Fort Worth airport that the strangest -- even spooky -- phenomena of the entire trip occurred...

We didn't talk about Houdini once.

Here are some more images from The Official Houdini Seance, 2012:

John Cox and Tom Boldt. Photo by William Radner.

Arthur Moses and Robert Somerdin. Photo by William Radner

Ash Adams, Scott Wells and a hobo. Photo by William Radner

Derek Kennedy and Bill Radner. Photo by William Radner

Scott Wells does a pre-seance interview. Photo by William Radner