This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/8/2023
HOUDINI, Harry (Erik Weisz, 1874 – 1926). Two Important Letters Written Prior to and After Houdini’s Death. The first, dated, October 15, 1925, and typed on a single blank sheet of paper, is addressed to Oliver Barrett of Chicago, and reads, in part, “I met with an accident, having suffered an interior fracture of my ankle, and can do only three-quarters of my performance. The show has kept me busy, and I have done a little in the collecting line. My route for the next few weeks is as follows: Princess Theatre, Montreal, Canada – week of October 18th, Garrick Theatre, Detroit, Michigan – weeks of October 25th and November 2nd, Hanna Theatre, Cleveland, Ohio – Week of November 9th. … Sincerely yours, [SIGNED] Houdini.” DAYS BEFORE HIS UNEXPECTED DEATH. The second letter, also written to Barrett, is dated October 29, 1926 and reads: “Mrs. Houdini has asked me to answer your very kind letter of Oct. 28th. Naturally, she is deeply affected by Mr. Houdini’s grave condition and cannot write to you herself. After the operation he showed remarkable improvement and our hopes have been raised very high. The doctors say he has an even chance of recovery, which was not the case at first. Today or within the next 48 hours he will pass the crisis, and we are praying for the best. All is in God’s hands. Everything possible is being done. Mrs. Houdini thanks you for your thoughtfulness and I’m sure Mr. Houdini will want to write you personally when he is recovered. Sincerely Yours, Elliot F. Sanford, Secretary, Houdini. P.S. His condition today was not so favorable, and another slight operation was necessary this afternoon. E.F.S.” Three leaves total, hinged at the left side to a large album page, and in very good condition overall, with both Houdini’s autograph and Sanford’s writing clear and crisp. The latter written on two sheets of engraved Hotel Statler of Detroit stationery. The pair being a remarkable set of letters with revealing information about the final days of the most famous magician the world has ever known.