The Collection of Jim Rawlins Part II

Houdini, Harry (Ehrich Weisz). Signed Invitation to Houdini’s Underwater “Buried Alive” Test. Printed invitation made out to the Evening Sun (Baltimore) to attend Houdini’s attempt to “remain submerged one hour in an airtight metal coffin” at the Hotel Shelton Swimming Pool on Aug. 5, 1926. Boldly signed “Houdini” at lower right. 3 ¼ x 5 1/8”. Minor creases. One of Houdini’s last and greatest stunts was this endurance test at the Hotel Shelton pool. He remained submerged underwater in a galvanized iron coffin for an amazing hour and twenty-eight minutes without the aid of breathing apparatus or secret devices. Admission was by invitation only, and the small crowd gathered to witness the dangerous feat consisted mainly of journalists, medical personnel, assistants, and friends of the magician. Houdini intended to make “buried alive” the central attraction of his 1927 tour, but died on October 31, 1926.