As Halloween approaches, we remember Harry Houdini (Erich Weiss) born March 24, 1874 (although he always claimed April 6, 1874, because that was what his mother told him) who died of sepsis from acute appendicitis on Halloween in 1926 (October 31st, 1926). Pictured here from the Averbook Magic Art Museum and Library is the tiny “pocket” purse that belonged to his wife and performing assistant Bess (Beatrice) Houdini. It was likely purchased for her in Germany between 1900-1902 by Harry. The purse measures 3 inches x 2 ¼ inches x a little over ½ inch thick. It is composed of silver and gold with uncut diamonds, turquoise, and opal. There are gold filial names and a fleur-de-lis shield. The upper left corner has “Frau Houdini” stamped in gold. Inside are three small velvet lined pockets. This was a very classy piece at that time. It was a testament to Houdini’s rapid rise to fame and success emerging from the obscure medicine shows and dime museum entertainment to the acclaimed American Vaudeville circuit when in 1899 he was signed by the illustrious Martin Beck. By the summer of 1901, Harry Houdini’s career was skyrocketing, and he was conquering Europe with his feats and performances! By the summer of 1901 he was already well-know as “The King of Handcuffs” in Germany.
