Harry Houdini centennial marks 100 years since magician's death

The 100th anniversary of the death of legendary escape artist and magician Harry Houdini is being observed this Halloween. While popular lore often suggests Houdini died on Halloween night following a performance at the Majestic Theater, historical records indicate his final performance occurred on October 24, 1926. He subsequently passed away from peritonitis at Grace Hospital in Detroit on Halloween.

To commemorate the centennial, the American Museum of Magic in Marshall is hosting a special séance. The event will feature a circle of guests gathered around Houdini’s milk can escape in an attempt to conjure his spirit.

Throughout his career, Houdini maintained significant connections to Washington, D.C., including several high-profile escapes from local jails and public straitjacket stunts performed in the city. He bequeathed his personal collection of magic memorabilia to the Library of Congress.