Fall Magic Auction (Online-Only)

HOUDINI, Harry (Ehrich Weisz). Important Houdini TLS to Edwin Fay Rice. Dated Nov. 14, 1917, Houdini writes to the curator of the Boston Public Library describing in great detail the tribute paid to Harry Kellar by Houdini and his fellow magicians on stage at the New York Hippodrome: “The affair was without a doubt the grandest event that ever happened in the world of mystery, and when we carried Kellar from the stage in a sedan chair and had about 50 men and women and children throw flowers at him, I saw him weep, and hundreds of handkerchiefs in the audience were used to keep the tears from falling. The band played Auld Lang Syne, and 6000 people joined in the chorus.” Houdini goes on to discuss varied matters, including recent literary efforts, the “oat and rabbit trick,” and states his wishes that “the Great Almighty will grant me the time and life to finish my work.” Houdini also discusses his fabled magic collection, writing, “Yes, I willingly accept the things you offer, and that half dollar wand is something I want very much. When I move into a bigger home, will have a magical museum and historical. Kellar had a tooth drawn the other day, and even that will rest, along side of Robt. Heller’s stage pump, and the Teintsein magician’s hollow ball.” Typed on one page, with Houdini’s signature in pencil in the lower right, and his penciled notation in the left margin: “Xcuse mistakes. Remember us to your good wife.” Framed with a later photo of Houdini in chains, the original mailing cover addressed to Rice, and a lengthy engraved plaque describing the circumstances leading up to the Kellar tribute, as well as other aspects of Houdini’s career related to the contents of the letter. A remarkable and revealing Houdini letter.