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From 1991 to 2003, the Houdini Historical Center in Appleton published a quarterly newsletter called Mystifier. Each issue ran 4 to 6 pages and provided news on current events, reviews, as well as deep dives into Houdini history. Every issue also contained a column by Sidney Radner, who had his finger on the pulse of all that was happening in the Houdini world. It was a treasure trove of information written by people with a passion for Houdini.

I have a complete set of Mystifiers and reviewed every issue HERE. But there's nothing like reading the issues themselves. So I will be sharing downloadable PDFs on my Patreon as periodic Monthly Rewards.

I've started this month with the Fourth Quarter 1996 issue, which reviews Ken Silverman's Houdini!!! The Career of Ehrich Weiss and has a terrific interview with Penn & Teller. This will only be available for the month of September.

Just another good reason to become (and remain) a patron! Thanks for your support.

Related:

• Announcing WILD ABOUT HARRY on Patreon
• Mystifier, Fourth Quarter 1996
• The Mystifier file

Mystifier, Fall 2003 (final issue)

Concluding my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

It seems fitting that the final issue of the Mystifier consists of a single article about Houdini's Last Will and Testament by Curator Kimberly Louagie. As with all of Louagie's work, it's well researched and thorough.

Sidney Radner did not provide his regular "Backstage" column this time. Instead, the back page contains a letter from Executive Director Terry Bergen explaining the current situation and future of the HHC.

I'm sure many of you have heard rumors about the changes at the Houdini Historical Center. It has been a most interesting and enlightening year! 

For fifteen years, we have been fortunate to be able to lease the Radner collection of Houdini artifacts. This opportunity has allowed the Outagamie Country Historical Society to develop the Houdini exhibit, as well as temporary exhibits, and the Houdini Historical Center. The original contract expires at the end of this year, and the economy has conspired to prevent us from extending the lease. Our county appropriation was cut 25% in 2003 and another 25% will be cut in 2004. The county funding is what has paid for the Houdini lease for the past 15 years.

Mr. Radner and other generous donors have provided the museum with a number of artifacts which will allow us to create a new exhibit about Houdini called "a.k.a. Houdini". The new exhibit will open in June 2004, and will be double the size of the current Houdini! exhibit. The Society plans an exhibit that will be a dynamic and exciting as the man Harry Houdini. The new exhibit will display fewer artifacts that the one which has featured Mr. Radner's extensive collection, but it will tell the story of Houdini's life images, interactives and artifacts.

Many of our HHC members have asked about the future of the Houdini Historical Center, now that the Radner Collection will be leaving the museum in Appleton. The Houdini Historical Center will continue, however, due to loss of staff caused by budget cuts, the Mystifier will be discontinued for 2004.

Bergen goes on to say that a new HHC website with a special "Members Only" section will be created. If this happened, it was only temporary. With the end of the Mystifier came the end of the Houdini Historical Center and the museum was renamed The History Museum at the Castle. And when the much touted new Houdini exhibit opened in 2004, magicians were shocked to see it exposed Houdini's Metamorphosis.

Despite criticism from magicians such as David Copperfield, the museum refused to change the exhibit, and any hope of the Radner collection ever returning to Appleton was dashed. (Sid said he was planning to bequeath his collection to the HHC.) Sid singled out Bergen for the turn of events, telling the New York Times, "She doesn't know Houdini from Liberace. She just knows dollars."

Sid's collection was auctioned in 2004. Terry Bergen remained director of The History Museum at the Castle until 2013. The a.k.a. Houdini exhibit can still be visited today.

I hope you enjoyed my look back at all 48 issues of the Mystifier. You can start all over or select an issue of your choice via the links below.

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | FIRST ISSUE

Related:

• Sidney Radner collection leaving Appleton
• BBC: Houdini exhibit enrages magicians
• New York Times: Sidney Radner collection to be auctioned in Las Vegas

Mystifier, Summer 2003

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Summer 2003 Mystifier is largely made up of an article by Curator Kimberly Louagie describing what to expect from the museum's new "AKA Houdini" exhibit set to open on June 1, 2004.

The approach taken to the new exhibit is based in part on front-end surveys of the Museum's membership (including Houdini Historical Center and Outagamie County Historical Society members). Respondents to the surveys rated their interest in Houdini's escapes, his stages of life, his personal relationships, and historical forces affecting his life and career. A majority of respondents favored a heavy use of interactives and wanted to know how Houdini performed his tricks. The most popular description of Houdini was a "showman" and the most common reason for remembering Houdini was his contributions to magic.

The newsletter also contains an obituary for Lee Jacobs, who passed away on April 18, 2003. Jacobs specialized in reproductions and is responsible for several well-known Houdini posters, most famously his "King of Cards" which hung on everyone's bedroom wall (including mine).

In what would be his last "Backstage" column, Sid discusses the book Lily Dale by Christine Wicker about the famous spiritualist community. Sid talks about his own visit and how the resident medium employed a cold reading technique, but was still unable to divine a single correct deal about Sid or his wife. "No more comment is needed," says Sid.

The newsletter concludes with an announcement of Appleton's "Houdini Day" on August 29 & 30, and a humorous story called "The Magician and the Parrot."

Mystifier

Volume 13, Number 2

Summer 2003

4 pages

Contents:

Not un a Museum?

Lee Jacobs R.I.P.
Backstage with Sid Radner
Houdini Day
The Magician and the Parrot

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• BBC: Houdini exhibit enrages magicians
• Original King of Cards poster sells on eBay
• Dissecting Quincy's 'The Death Challenge'

Mystifier, Spring 2003

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Winter 2003 Mystifier contains only a single article, but it's a good one! Ethel Cohn Schatz, the widow of Dr. Daniel E. Cohn, writes about her husband's memories of treating Houdini during his final illness (Cohn was the hotel doctor at the Statler). It was Cohn who famously brought Houdini Farmers Chop Suey, as Ethel remembers:

Every evening Daniel sat at Houdini's bedside listening to his halting sentences as he reminisced mostly about his childhood. [...] Though he had no appetite for food, he said to Daniel one evening, "I have a yen for Farmers Chop Suey." Farmers Chop Suey is a favorite dish in Jewish homes, consisting of raw vegetables combined with sour cream. Daniel walked over to a nearby delicatessen on Woodward Avenue and bought two portions. As they were eating, Houdini said, "If I die, don't be surprised if phony spiritualists declare a national holiday."

The newsletter also contains a pitch for contributions to the new Houdini exhibit, noting that for a mere $50,000 your name can be added to a marquee beside the Water Torture Cell. I wonder what cell the museum planned to display? If that's too rich, you can get on the Milk Can marquee for a measly $10,000.

Sid Radner writes his "Backstage" column from his home in Florida, saying a magician with the name Hare E. Houdini is performing locally. He also notes that the city of Appleton has issued a 2nd Day cover of the Houdini Stamp. He then solicits ideas for where to hold the 2003 Official Houdini Seance.

In what might be a sign of the growing friction between Sid and the HHC (namely its director Terry Bergen), there is an "Editors Note" at the end of his column informing readers that the Official Houdini Seance is not affiliated with the HHC.

Finally, the newsletter reports that the Michigan Historical Museum displayed the HHC's Magician Among the Spirits exhibit from September 21, 2002 to January 26, 2003 and drew 49,509 visitors.

Mystifier

Volume 13, Number 1

Spring 2003

4 pages

Contents:

Houdini's Last Hours

Backstage with Sid Radner
Michigan Historical Museum

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Was Houdini killed by Chop Suey?
• The House of Houdini welcomes special visitors
• New development to rise on site of Statler Hotel

Mystifier, Winter 2002

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The now single color Mystifier for Winter 2002 begins with what would appear to be great news; a major expansion of the Houdini exhibit and new displays coming in 2004. In reality this was the beginning of the end for the "Houdini Historical Center" and the Mystifier under the new leadership of Executive Director Terry Bergen. (I've found it's never a good sign when a museum announces its displays will become "interactive.")

In addition to Bergen's opening article, which is largely a plea for donations for her vision, the cover of the newsletter features a nice photo of Houdini and Harry Kellar with the "Psycho" automaton. The caption says the HHC acquired the original photo at the recent Manny Weltman Swann Auction with funds provided by Richard Heinzkill.

Inside the newsletter is an obituary of Dr. Morris N. Young, who passed away on November 20, 2002 on his way to a magic convention in which he was the honoree. As a child Young saw Houdini perform and even shook his hand! He later co-authored the book Houdini Fabulous Magic with Walter B. Gibson. Young was also on the HHC board and regular contributor to the Mystifier.

The newsletter also contains an insert questionnaire asking members what aspects of Houdini's life should be highlighted in the new exhibits. The insert is meant to be mailed back to the HHC (which technically makes this a 4-page newsletter). Ominously, one question asks: "Would you like information on how Houdini performed his tricks?" This is followed by a full page ad for the HHC's new Houdini envelopes.

Sid Radner devotes his entire "Backstage" column to the 2002 Official Houdini Seance held in the Brooklyn Room of the New York, New York Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. The seance was conducted by the "famous" Reverend Ray Fraser and his daughter Wendy Fraser-Baily from Detroit. The famous Houdini stayed away.

Sid then asks readers for suggestions about where future seances should be held, saying they are seeking "some special location at which he previously entertained." He then lists his Holyoke and Palm Beach addresses. He also announces (again) that he will soon acquire a computer to make communication easier.

Mystifier

Volume 12, Number 4

Winter 2002

6 pages

Contents:

New Houdini Exhibit Opening in 2004
R.I.P. Dr. Morris N. Young
Survey on a New Houdini Exhibit
Houdini Envelopes Available To Members

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• BBC: Houdini exhibit enrages magicians
• A gift between Circumnavigators
• The best forgotten Houdini book

Mystifier, Fall 2002

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Fall 2002 Mystifier celebrates the coming of the U.S. Postal Service's First Class Houdini stamp. This was a personal triumph for the HHC and Sidney Radner who had lobbied long and hard for this recognition. The newsletter contains photos and a report from the HHCs own dedication ceremony on July 5. For the occasion, Wisconsin-based escape artist Mike Schroeder performed a suspended straitjacket escape.

The newsletter continues with news of a second big event; the unveiling of John Gaughan's restored Water Torture Cell. The cell was displayed at the Center for Jewish History in New York from July 3 to August 5. The newsletter includes a photo of John with the USD, which for many was probably their first look at the restoration. It also has a Q&A with John. Below is a sampling:

Mystifier: Did you understand the mechanism in the Water Torture Cell before you began?

JG: I had reworked the Water Torture Cell in 1991. If I had not had that opportunity, it would have been impossible to restore the Water Torture Cell at all. I needed to be familiar with the whole piece since it was so totally destroyed in the fire. There were only fragments remaining of the original piece. 

Mystifier: What was the most difficult part of the project? 

JG: To be faithful to the original design. Not to cut corners but to use exact materials and methods of the original. The restoration used rare Honduras mahogany with a ribbon pattern, just as in the original. I used lap joints in the construction, as in the original to allow for the expansion and contraction that would occur when it was filled with water.

The newsletter continues with the sad news of the death of Ronald J. Hilgert, HHC member and author of Houdini Comes to America (1996). The museum shop announces new items related to the Houdini stamp, such a first day covers and pins. Recent donors are listed along with the staff of the HHC, which we now see is headed by Executive Director Terry Bergen who will prove controversial.

In his regular "Backstage" column, Sid (sporting a new column photo) talks about the HHC stamp event and the restored Water Torture Cell. He expresses disappointment that he was not invited to the official unveiling of the stamp in New York City. That ceremony featured David Copperfield (in a suit matching the one we see Houdini wearing in the stamp image) and Marie Blood. But Sid deems the Appleton ceremony as being the "much more impressive stamp dedication" and points out that it was covered by four TV stations.

Finally, it's worth pointing out that this issue introduces a few stylistic changes. No longer are the Contents listed on the cover. The font size is also increased (actually, the font sizes and styles are wildly inconsistent). This would also prove to be the last Mystifier printed in two colors.

Mystifier

Volume 12, Number 3

Fall 2002

6 pages

Contents:

U.S, Postal Service Recognizes Houdini!
The Water Torture Cell is Reborn!
R.I.P. Ronald J. Hilgert
Museum Shop News

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Houdini honored with U.S. postage stamp
• Eric Olsen on restoring the Water Torture Cell
• A magical visit to the workshop of John Gaughan

Mystifier, Summer 2002

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Summer 2002 Mystifier features a lengthy profile of Bess aka "Madame Houdini" by HHC curator Kimberly Louagie. It contains mostly known information, but a gem is the reproduction in full of a letter Bess wrote to Hardeen on April 21, 1911. Letters written by Bess during Houdini's lifetime are uncommon, so this is something special. It's written to Dash in secret after Harry and his brother appear to have had a fight. I'm taking the liberty of reproducing it here:

    My dear Bro. Dash,
        Just heard that you were not coming over here, and the reason why. Now Dash, please do come over and if Harry does not pay the difference I will. Harry does not know I'm writing this. Now I want to tell you why he is sore. You know we are playing all the towns that you played, and of course there are plenty of guys always ready to tell H. about your challenges and what you did, and H. told me you had promised not to do challenges etc. Of course he is sore now, but I am sure if he sees you he'll forget all about it. Harry is working to death, he looks so old, he's quite gray and I am afraid he is over doing it all. Now please Dash come over. I'm looking forward with pleasure of seeing Elsie and Baby Harry, but I hope you will come with them, and I am ready to help to keep my word about paying the difference (you know I have a bank account). Please let me know at once if you come.
         I am as ever your loving sister Bess.

Following the Bess piece is a plea to "Friends of Houdini" for donations to the HHC by Executive Director JoEllen Wollangk. There are also details of a special party on July 5, 2002 to celebrate the upcoming Houdini stamp.

Page five contains another rare treat. It's a facsimile reproduction of an Oath of Secrecy signed by Houdini assistant John Boyd on May 7, 1913. I admit John Boyd is a new name to me.

Sid Radner's photo is omitted from his "Backstage" column this time. Sid discusses the above oath and how oaths such as these are why one doesn't read exposures from Houdini's assistants. Sid again claims all published accounts of how Houdini did his Water Torture Cell are incorrect. He then says something very intriguing regarding the Mirror handcuffs:

At the present time the secret of the London Daily Illustrated Mirror Handcuff escape is still unknown to the public. I know the answer but I am not convinced that revealing the secret serves any good purpose.

What exaclty did Sid know???

Sid finishes by saying he has been in touch with a newly discovered member of the Houdini family and that he will reveal more in a future Mystifier. (Sid sure loved to withhold, didn't he?)

The newsletter ends with the special announcement that the recently restored Water Torture Cell will be unveiled at the American Jewish Historical Society of New York. There's also a reproduction of Josolyne's illustration of Houdini's Walking Through a Brick Wall from Weird Wonders for Wizards (1925), which is a correction to the last issue which mistakenly used Gibson's illustration from Houdini's Escapes and Magic.

Mystifier

Volume 12, Number 2

Summer 2002

6 pages

Contents:

Madame Houdini
Houdini Stamp Event
We need your help!

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Beatrice Houdini
• "Dearest Vincent" - Lost Bessie letter comes home
• Houdini secrecy oath sells on eBay

Mystifier, Spring 2002

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Spring 2002 issue of Mystifier begins with a lengthy review by HHC curator Kimberly Louagie of the new book, Final Séance: The Strange Friendship Between Houdini and Conan Doyle by Massimo Polidoro. Louagie compares and contrasts the book to the Bernard Ernst and Heward Carrington's 1932 Houdini and Doyle: The Story of a Strange Friendship, of which it draws much inspiration. While somehwhat critical of Polidoro's work, in the end she recommends the book.

The newsletter continues with a good article about Houdini's Walking Through a Brick Wall by guest contributor Stephen Forrester. Jim Klodzen is a familiar name among the new HHC Members.

Sid Radner begins his "Backstage" column discussing how Houdini's fight against frauds continues with federal and Florida state officials recently cracking down on the Psychic Readers Network. Says Sid, "Strange, isn't it, that these people who claim to predict the future can't seem to avoid the authorities?"

Sid reports that Houdini appeared as a character in Dave Graue's and Jack Bender's comic strip "Alley Oop" from December 3, 2001 through January 9, 2002. He recommends Mickey Hade's New Encyclopedia of Escapes, but points out that the method Hade's gives for Houdini's Water Torture Cell is incorrect. And Sid would know!

Sid finishes with a reminder that the Travel Channel's Houdini documentary will air on April 15, 2002.

Mystifier

Volume 12, Number 1

Spring 2002

6 pages

Contents:

The Strange Friendship Between Houdini and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
New Members
Houdini's "Walking Through a Brick Wall" Illusion

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• The true story of Houdini & Doyle
• When Houdini walked through a brick wall
• No, that's NOT the secret of Houdini's Water Torture Cell

Mystifier, Winter 2001-2

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The last issue of Mystifier for 2001 eliminates the "Quarterly" denotation and announces itself as the "Winter 2001-2" issue. It begins with a review by HHC curator Kimberly Louagie of the new book Houdini, Tarzan, and the Perfect Man. The White Male Body and The Challenge of Modernity in America by John F. Kasson. It's a book she recommends as "a great example of how authors can peel away specific aspects of Houdini's life and interpret the magician in a larger historical context." Louagie nicely summarizes the chapter on Houdini as:

Its 78 pages explains how how Houdini helped alleviate some of the tensions felt by men living in new urban communities. Kasson argues that men felt they were losing their independence to industrialization. Their environment has changed from an idealized frontier society to one dominated by corporate capitalism. Kasson sees Houdini's appeal and subsequent fame as an expression of men's need to reclaim and redefine their manhood in a modern world.

The newsletter, which only runs 4 pages this time, continues with an alert for visitors to Appleton about construction along College Ave. It notes the Travel Channel documentary featuring the HHC is set to air April 15, 2002. It also reveals the artwork for the upcoming Houdini stamp as the famous 1911 lithograph, a copy of which the museum has on display from the Tom Boldt collection.

A sign of the times, Sid Radner begins his "Backstage" column discussing the impact of 9/11 on friends of the HHC, including Anna Crankshaw, the great granddaughter of Margery, who lives near Ground Zero and actually witnessed both planes fly into the towers. Sid notes that many regulars could not travel to the Official Houdini Seance that year at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit. But one welcome new attendee was George Hardeen, the grandson of Theo.

Sid also amusingly points out that he contacted John Edwards, who was finding popularity with his Crossing Over program at this time, and invited him to attend. To no one's surprise Edwards never responded.

Sid continues with a rundown of publicity the seance received, including various radio interviews he gave and coverage in the Fort Worth Star-Telegram featuring Arthur Moses. Sid closes with news of the official announcement of the Houdini stamp ceremony to be held on July 3, 2002.

Mystifier

Volume 11, Number 4

Winter 2001-2

4 pages

Contents:

Houdini, Tarzan, and the Perfect Man: A Review
Travel Channel Documentary to Air
Stamp Artwork Announced

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Houdini, Tarzan, and the Perfect Man
• Interview with Anna Thurlow
• Houdini honored with U.S. postage stamp

Mystifier, Third Quarter 2001

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The third quarter 2001 Mystifier kicks off with a review by HHC curator Kimberly Louagie of the new book Houdini's Box: The Art of Escape by Adam Phillips. While somewhat critical of the author's undeveloped ideas, in the end she still recommends the book as "a first step in delving into a very difficult discussion about Houdini's psyche." A highlight of the review is a terrific photo of Houdini in his plate glass box in Pittsburgh in 1907.

A list of new members and a gift shop update follows. We then get a terrific piece by George Hardeen introducing himself and talking about how he has only recently come to know the Houdini world. George writes:

I'm surrounded by new friendly people willing to guide me, and faces from the past who seem oddly familiar. They should. The faces are my family, and the new people are those who knew them, love them and love them still.

Sid starts his "Backstage" column with a rundown of several new books: Final Seance: The Strange Friendship between Houdini and Cohen Doyle by Massimo Polidoro; Spellbinder: The Life of Harry Houdini by Tom Lalicki; Houdini, Tarzan, and the Perfect Man: The White Male Body in the Challenge of Modernity in America by John F. Kason; and the aforementioned Houdini's Box: The Art of Escape by Adam Phillips. Sid also notes that the bestseller The Adventures of Kavalier and Clay by Michael Chabon "features repeated references to Houdini."

Sid continues with a shoutout to a Houdini article in the November 2001 Games magazine. He officially announces that the Houdini Stamp will be issued on July 3, 2002. He speaks about meeting George Hardeen, and that plans are underway to hold The Official Houdini Seance in Detroit that year.

Sid closes by announcing that a Houdini straitjacket was stolen from the Houdini Museum at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. He asks for any information that could help in the recovery of the jacket and arrest of the guilty party. (I'm not sure if it was ever recovered.)

Mystifier

Volume 11, Number 3

Third Quarter, 2001

6 pages

Contents:

Houdini's Box Reviewed
New Members
Magic Items for Young Children
Seeking Hardeen

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Hardeen in the House!
• NPR unlocks the secret of Houdini's bloodline
• Las Vegas Houdini museum closed

Mystifier, Second Quarter 2001

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The second quarter 2001 Mystifier is largely made up of an excellent article by HHC curator Kimberly Louagie about "Houdini in 1897." Along with the California Concert Co. she also includes the Houdinis time with Rogers' Orpheum Stars. This is not one of the better documented years in Houdini's life so this article is a treat.

The newsletter continues with the announcement that the HHC website will replace their mailed museum shop catalog (sign of the times). It then covers a recent documentary shoot by the Travel Channel at the center. New members include Bill Martin and Max Maven. Recent Fund Drive Donors are also listed.

Sid Radner begins his "Backstage" column with news that Tom Carrier's Mysteriarch Enterprises has taken over Norman Bigelow's Escape Masters and will relaunch the publication starting October 1, 2001. (Did this ever happen?) Sid then gives a shout out to the new Radisson Paper Valley Hotel in Appleton, and says his sources tell him the Houdini stamp "is closer to becoming a reality." He then alerts readers to a Houdini-related story in the December 2000 issue of Popular Science.

Sid closes by saying he's working with members of New York University's Center for Advanced Technology on a virtual museum devoted to Jewish culture. "One of these days I will get a computer and join the 21st century," says Sid.

Mystifier

Volume 11, Number 2

Second Quarter, 2001

6 pages

Contents:

Houdini in 1897
Fund Drive Donors
Museum Shop News
Travel Channel Documentary Crew Films at HHC

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• The Houdinis are Rogers' Orpheum Stars of 1897
• Norman Bigelow has passed away

Mystifier, First Quarter 2001

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The first quarter 2001 Mystifier features excerpts from a questionnaire Houdini filled out in Bess's autograph book in 1909. HHC curator Kimberly Louagie says, "An unusual piece of history, it gives some insight into the Handcuff King's psyche. Many of his answers revealed a man with simple tastes, a flair for sarcasm, and tongue-in-cheek comebacks." Below are a few examples:

Q. What characteristics do you most admire in a man?
A. Bashfulness.
Q. What do you consider your best quality?
A. My hatred for publicity.
Q. What gives you most annoyance?
A. Drawing my salary.
Q. Do you think women should take part in public life?
A. Yes...
Q. What is your favorite motto?
A. "Do others or they will do you."
Q. Whom do you consider the greatest magician of the present age?
A. "Rigo" the Gipsy.
Q. Whom do you consider the greatest author of the present age?
A. Modesty forbids me, writing my name!
Q. Who is your hero or heroine in life.
A. My mother-in-law.
Q. Name the composer whose music you enjoy.
A. Franz Kukol.

This is followed by a report on Sidney Radner's donation of an almost complete file of Houdini's Red Magic newspaper circular from 1924 to 1926. The newsletter also contains an except from one of the issues. Kimberly Louagie then provides a detailed overview of the 2000 Official Houdini Seance held at the Humphrey Scottish Rite Masonic Center.

In his "Backstage" column, Sid Radner reports on some recent mentions of Houdini's name in connection with famous sports figures, such as Chuck "Hitman" Hiter and Tiger Woods. He then asks readers to clip and send any mention of Houdini in newspapers or magazines with hopes that this could help convince the post office to go ahead with their proposed Houdini stamp.

Sid also notes that the March issue of Genii contains a two page story on the new Houdini Museum at the Venetian Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. He then gives a shout out to the Houdini Club of Wisconsin and their upcoming convention at the Paper Valley Hotel in Appleton. "It's good to see Houdini's hometown welcome him back to enthusiastically," says Sid.

Mystifier

Volume 11, Number 1

First Quarter, 2001

6 pages

Contents:

Q and A: Excerpts from an Interview with Houdini
Houdini's Red Magic
Seance Report

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Houdini Club of Wisconsin celebrates 74 years
• LINK: Harry Houdini: Interview by Marcet Haldeman-Julius, Oct. 1925
• Las Vegas Houdini museum closed

Mystifier, Fourth Quarter 2000

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The fourth quarter 2000 Mystifier begins with an excellent article by guest contributor Massimo Polidoro about Houdini's exposure of pellet reading medium Bert Reese. It's well researched and not a common story.

This is followed by a report on the HHC's recent children's Halloween event with a performance by member Rondini. Among the list of new members is the familiar name of Leonard Hevia.

Guest contributor Paul Rosen then provides a first hand report on the Houdini ride at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey. Paul even describes his experience of standing in line and overhearing people talking about Houdini:

The group discussed how Houdini was punched in the stomach and died later that day in the "big water tank trick." They spoke of his ability to "Talk to the dead." And one gentlemen even knew that he was once married to Jamie Lee Curtis' mother!

The ride in set inside a mock up of 278. Paul describes the impressive decor inside and out. He then does his best to explain the ride itself:

The best way I can describe the ride is that we were given the sensation that we were somehow rotating, although we felt no ill effects of such travel. We never felt gravity kick in, even though we defied it while presumably upside down. Many people seemed to enjoy the ride.

In his "Backstage" column, Sid Radner reports on that year's Official Houdini Seance held at The Humphrey Scottish Rite Masons Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He then says he and his wife Helen have purchased a condo in Florida where they will spend winters. He also reports: "There are strong rumors about a Houdini stamp to be issued by the United States Postal Service in 2002. All of us at the HHC hope this turns out to be true."

Sid signs off by wishing all a happy Christmas, Hanukkah, and New Year.

Mystifier

Volume 10, Number 4

Fourth Quarter, 2000

6 pages

Contents:

The Unmasking of Bert Reese
New HHC Event a Success
Welcome New Members
Houdini Gets Taken for (or as) a Ride

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Houdini is back in action at Six Flags
• New Italian Houdini biography by Massimo Polidoro
• Houdini honored with U.S. postage stamp

Mystifier, Third Quarter 2000

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The third quarter 2000 Mystifier runs only 4 pages, but the info contained in those four pages is something special. Curator Kimberly Louagie deep dives into Houdini's appearance in Madison, Wisconsin in January 1924. She then reveals a Q&A with Wisconsinite Morris Grenzow who actually saw Houdini in Madison when he was seven years old.

Grenzow travelled to the HHC on May 31, 2000 to share his memories. A sampling is below.

Q. What was Houdini's opening escape? 

A. His first act was escaping from a straight jacket. There were two men there from the Mendota Mental Hospital that put that straightjacket on him I can remember those two guys going around tightening the straps and this and that I would say he was out in a minute or two... Then they had him all chained up and padlocked, but he got out of those chains. Those chains flew ... and the final act was the water chamber. At that time Mrs. Houdini came out on the stage and there was another man there who had a fire axe that stood by the water chamber in case something were to go wrong and probably make it look good.... They lowered him in there upside down and he was in chains... I could see him wiggling around in that water to get out.

Q. What was Houdini wearing? 

A. Well, not much of anything really... He probably had tight knit pants and shirt and that was about it. I can remember more about what Mrs. Houdini wore. Her clothes was something you'd wear going to a funeral. Real drab looking, long shirt, you couldn't see much above the ankle. She had a hat like they wore at that time, kind of a felt hat, tight fitting. I have seen Doug Henning and his stage was full of props. But Houdini had practically nothing there. He was there himself [with] the straitjacket, the water chamber, and the chains. But he put on a great performance. He didn't need anything to prop him up. 

Q. How did the audience react to Houdini's show? 

A. Well, they were very pleased with the performance. I just don't remember that part of it. But my eyes were glued on him every minute he was there. I tell you I think he just kind of held the audience spellbound. They didn't really show any emotion at all. They just couldn't believe what they saw.

In the interview Mr. Grenzow also made the remarkable claim that Houdini escaped from his Water Torture Cell in full view of the audience. CLICK HERE for that and supporting evidence that he might have been correct.

In "Backstage with Sid Radner", Sid announced the opening of the new Houdini Museum at the Venetian Casino in Las Vegas (adjacent to Houdini's Magic Shop). Sid reports the museum displays the original Miss. Undina poster and Houdini's pillory escape. Also on display is an engraved flask from a Superintendent Piece to Houdini.

Sid then continues the saga of Donald Ferguson, the man who claimed to be the grandson of Theo Hardeen. Ferguson's latest move was to evade a court appearance claiming to be ill and confined to his bed. But witnesses reported Ferguson "was seen about town walking, running, driving, shopping, and pushing a stalled automobile" on the day of his scheduled appearance.

Sid closes with a shoutout to the HHC's new "A Magician Among the Spirits" exhibition. He also reports that a "virtual tour" is available on the HHC website.

Mystifier

Volume 10, Number 3

Third Quarter, 2000

4 pages

Contents:

Houdini "In The Greatest Performance of his Strenuous Career"

Backstage with Sid Radner

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Related:

• Where I met a man who saw Houdini
• Miss Undina in color
• Las Vegas Houdini museum closed

Mystifier, Second Quarter 2000

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The second quarter 2000 Mystifier kicks off with an article by curator Kimberly Louagie about Dai Vernon. Louagie states that "by far the most popular question asked in the last few years is––who fooled Houdini?" (Really?) That man was, of course, Dai Vernon, "The Professor", who never had a good thing to say about Houdini himself. So we'll leave it at that!

The second major article of the newsletter is about the history of 278 by Dr. Morris Young. Young recalls his own visits to Houdini's brownstone, including being the participant in a Houdini radio seance broadcast from 278 by Long John Nebel. (Young dates this as 1944, but from what I find, the Nebel seance happened in 1971.)

In his time, Dr. Young was also a recognized expert in the use of mnemonics and codes, and he closes his article with this curious application of mnemonics to Houdini's address:

So motivated by Houdini's often expressed interest in mentalism, codes, cypher and coincidence, I became impelled to submit "278" to its phonetic numeral mnemonic implications. Suddenly, "278" resounded in my ears as "han(d)cuff" or alternatively, uncuff. In the system, numerals are given the sound of consonants. 2 equals N; 7 equals hard C or K; 8 equals F or PH, Trying out the system on "113" (the street number), I equals T or D or TH; 3 equals M. In making up words, vowels have no mnemonic value and may be used liberally. W, H and Y are "neuters". Accordingly, "278 W. 113" becomes "Uncuff We Tie Them", the address of the house.

In "Backstage with Sid Radner", Sid reports that S.A.M. president Harry Monti and past presidents George Schindler and Frank Daily visited the HHC following that year's S.A.M. national convention in Milwaukee. He then plugs the HHC website and museum shop. Sid also announces that the new Houdini Museum at the Venetian Casino in Las Vegas will be open by the time this newsletter arrives.

Sid closes with the story of how he fooled Dai Vernon twice in 1942 with a left-handed peek and one-handed bottom deal. Sid says, "Perhaps I should have billed myself as the 'gambling expert who fooled Vernon', but much of the general public didn't know who Vernon was." Mic drop.

Mystifier

Volume 10, Number 2

Second Quarter, 2000

6 pages

Contents:

Who Fooled Houdini?
New Members
History, Numbering Coincidence Surrounds Houdini's "278"
Special Thanks

Backstage with Sid Radner

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Related:

• The card trick that fooled Houdini
• Vernon now bashing Houdini from beyond
• The owners and occupants of Houdini's 278

Mystifier, First Quarter 2000

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Mystifier enters the 21st century with an excellent article by curator Kimberly Louagie highlighting items from the Tom Boldt collection. Specifically featured are reports written by Rose Mackenberg for Houdini about her visits to bogus mediums. One such report is reproduced in full. Unlike Louagie's previous Mystifier efforts which seemed aimed at the layperson, there's a lot here for the hardcore Houdini buff.

The newsletter continues with news of new posters at the museum shop created by BVK/MacDonald. Among the listing of new members is Jim Bentley. We then get a real treat; a reproduction of an article by Tom Richard's about Dong Henning's visit to Appleton in 1986. Doug and Debby Henning performed Metamorphosis in Houdini Plaza.

In "Backstage" Sid Radner reports on the success of the HHC website, which clocked 18,165 visitors in the first three months of the new year. He shares news of recent interviews held at the HHC for the History Channel and Discovery. He then reports on the upcoming Houdini Museum adjacent to Houdini's Magic Shop at at the Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas. "Plan are running a little behind schedule, but I am hoping for a May opening," says Sid.

Sid then continues the saga of Donald Fergason, who despite a court order continued to represent himself as Houdini family member and again found himself before a judge. "All very interesting and I will keep you posted with any further developments on the case," says Sid. [I believe I encountered this character still working his con at the Houdini Walk of Fame Star ceremony in 2008.]

The newsletter closes with a photo of curator Kimberly Louagie standing with Houdini's full body punishment suit, a gift to the HHC from Sid Radner.

Mystifier

Volume 10, Number 1

First Quarter, 2000

6 pages

Contents:

The Boldt Collection
New Members
Museum Shop News
Doug Henning's Appleton Visit

Backstage with Sid Radner

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Related:

• A Rose by many names
• Houdini Plaza turns 30
• Las Vegas Houdini museum closed

Mystifier, Fourth Quarter 1999

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Fourth Quarter 1999 Mystifier marks the opening of a new HHC exhibition, Houdini: A Magician Among the Spirits, with a lengthy article by curator Kimberly Louagie giving an overview of Houdini's involvement with Spiritualism. It's well researched and doesn't fall into any of the familiar narrative traps (no Mama death a motivator), but as with Louagie's other Mystifier contributions, it's aimed more at the general reader than the hardcore Houdini buff.

The newsletter continues with news of new posters at the museum shop and a report on the recent Young Magicians workshop held at the HHC. New HHC members and recent donors are also listed.

In his "Backstage" column, Sid Radner describes the 1999 Official Houdini Seance held at the Magic Circle in London. Among the attendees was Mick Hanzlik and Frank Koval. Sid then reports on the legal takedown of a Houdini family impostor:

As the result of a federal court case, the imposter who claimed to be a grand-nephew of Houdini will do so no longer. The alleged "Hardeen H. Houdini" is actually Donald Ferguson. The federal court has ordered him to stop making false claims and has ordered him to cease using the Houdini and Hardeen names. His website will be removed from the Internet. Houdini would no doubt be pleased, as he too fought imposters' use of his name.

Sid concludes with news that a new Houdini documentary produced by Nancy Porter Productions for WGBH will air as part of the PBS American Experience series in January 24, 2000. (If we all survive the "Millennium Bug"!)

Mystifier

Volume 9, Number 4

Fourth Quarter, 1999

6 pages

Contents:

New Houdini Exhibit
Museum Shop News
New Members
Young Magicians' Workshop

Backstage with Sid Radner

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Related:

• Houdini exposed mediums MUCH earlier than we thought
• Mama's death and the birth of a myth
• PBS Houdini doc released on DVD

Mystifier, Third Quarter 1999

Continuing my issue by issue look back at the Mystifier, the newsletter of the Houdini Historical Center that ran from 1991-2003.

The Third Quarter 1999 Mystifier is once again made up largely of a single article by curator Kimberly Louagie on "Houdini's Rivals and Imitators." Once again it's aimed at a more general reader, but there are a few gems for the hardcore. These include a notation on a 1903 photo in which Houdini acknowledges S.S. Baldwin as "the man that gave me the handcuff idea." There's also Houdini's amusing but cheap shot at Brindamour that appeared in his Conjures Monthly Magazine:

He wrote that when he met Brindamour in 1896 he was a dance teacher. He "showed me pictures of himself in ballet costume, and seemed to be proud that he could impersonate the female sex so perfectly." Also included was Brindamour's business card with the words, "Teacher of Fancy Dancing."

The article includes a terrific photo of Jacob Hyman and his sub trunk and an unpublished shot of Hardeen on stage entering a packing case circa 1930.

The newsletter continues with the announcement of a new postcard featuring Houdini's famous Circus Busch poster. It references it as being 1908, but the image is actually the 1912 version. It's also noted that HHC attendance is up 9% for the year, and that QuickTime videos of Sid Radner have been added to the HHC website.

"Backstage with Sid Radner" features a group photo of HHC Honorary Board members at a recent dinner. Sid also notes that Tom Boldt's son, Philip, is training to do Houdini's Water Torture Cell. "An interest in Houdini may be hereditary." Sid then gives a nod to a new book, The Great Houdini by Monica Kulling. He also gives details of the upcoming Official Houdini Seance in London. He then ends with this:

An interesting potential bit of news; there may be another Houdini relative. It appears that a previously unknown family member emigrated to the United States. I am trying to pursue this matter, and will keep you informed.

I'm not sure who Sid is talking about here, and I don't recall if he ever did reveal more in an upcoming newsletter. But I guess we will find out as we continue on!

Mystifier

Volume 9, Number 3

Third Quarter, 1999

6 pages

Contents:

Handcuff Kings & Prison Breakers: Houdini's Rivals and Imitators
New Members
Museum Shop News
Video Added to HHC Web Site

Backstage with Sid Radner

PREVIOUS ISSUE | INDEX | NEXT ISSUE

Related:

• Houdini and Brindamour: Showdown in San Francisco
• Houdini gives the all clear to his imitators???
• Circus Busch Houdini poster for sale at Magic Live