Harry Houdini

Harry Houdini died on Halloween in 1926 and is still one of the most famous magicians/escape artists known to this day.

Everyone knows Houdini. Many, many performers over the years have tried to imitate and build a career on escapism acts...and so far none have ever lived up to the Great Houdini.

Born in Budapest, Hungary in 1874, he led a fascinating life. He loved aviation and bought a plane for $5k in 1909, hiring a full time mechanic to help him with it. He successfully flew it in Germany and was the first to fly over Australia without crashing on March 18, 1910. A hundred years ago! He stated at the time that no one would remember Houdini the magician but would always remember Houdini the Aviator.

His house, a beautiful brownstone in Harlem New York, was purchased by him in 1904 for $25,000. Amazing! The same housing today costs between $400,000 and $1.2M.

Learn more about the Amazing Houdini:

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