RR Auction and their amazing past items: Harry Houdini



Anyone who is passionate about magic tricks and stunts has also definitely herd of the amazing Harry Houdini. There is basically no way anyone could ever mention spectacular escape acts without his name coming to mind. His untimely death was long covered in mystery, but back in October 2009 RR Auction managed to sell two unique items that somehow reveal the circumstances of his passing away.

RR Auction sold two letters, one written and signed by Houdini himself and the other one by his secretary, both addressed to his attorney, Oliver Barrett. The first letter, carrying the performer’s signature talks about the lawsuit or, better said the lawsuits with spiritualist charlatans. The 8.5 X 11 letter reads: “The articles in the Examiner have not come to my attention and I am very glad you have some. If there is any information regarding the people with whom we have lawsuits, I will let you know. 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—week of October 25th and November 2nd, Hanna Theatre, Cleveland, Ohio—week of November 9th. Mrs. Houdini joins me in sending the kindest regards to you all.”  As it turns out, the show in Princess Theatre turned out to be his last, where he exposed the fraudulent spiritualists he intended a lawsuit against.

The second letter, signed by Houdini’s secretary was written two weeks after the one in which the performer mentions his lawsuit and it talks about his deteriorating health. The 5.75 X 9.5 document 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 personally when he is recovered.”

Both letters were in fine condition and were sold for over $3,950. They are a remarkable of example of the kind of rare items that RR Auction manages to bring in. Further details on past or upcoming events and even lot sales can be found on their website or on social media.

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