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Lot #743
Harry Houdini TLS from 'Hippodrome' ('Vanishing Elephant')

Houdini writes from the Hippodrome, where he debuted the famous 'vanishing elephant' trick

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Estimate: $3000+
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Description

Houdini writes from the Hippodrome, where he debuted the famous 'vanishing elephant' trick

TLS signed “Houdini,” one page, 5.5 x 8.5, New York Hippodrome letterhead, May 19, 1918. Letter to "William," sent during his famous 19-week engagement at the Hippodrome, during which he made an elephant disappear. In part: "Your Magazine has been handed Official paper of reporting S.A.M. meetings etc, at last Council meeting. It has been stated that your paper is out of existence, and I arose in due wrath and said you were publishing it right along…give me address where it is purchaseable in America…I told Martinka you were looking for his address, also Powers." In very good to fine condition, with show-through at the top from old mounting remnants on the back.

Houdini's 19-week run at the Hippodrome began on January 7, 1918, during which time he debuted his famed 'vanishing elephant' trick, making this letterhead especially significant. The letter also boasts ideal magic-world content on the subject of the Society of American Magicians (S.A.M.) and a reference to "Martinka," founder of a famous magic company.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Classical Music
  • Dates: #661 - Ended April 12, 2023





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