Houdini's Death Anniversary Marks 100 Years

This Halloween marks the 100th anniversary of Harry Houdini's death in Detroit. His death, which occurred on October 31, 1926, remains a subject of fascination and speculation.

Houdini performed in Detroit 19 times between the early days of his career in 1894 and the final show of his life in 1926. His career took him from a bottom-of-the-bill act to one of the most famous entertainers in the world.

Houdini's death was likely the result of an incident just before his arrival in Detroit. He had been punched several times in the stomach by a wrestler in Montreal, and doctors advised him to rest. However, he refused to cancel his scheduled shows in Detroit.

Houdini made it through only one performance in Detroit before collapsing during intermissions. He was taken to Grace Hospital, where doctors found he had ruptured his appendix. He died several days later after two surgeries.

Many of the locations associated with Houdini's death in Detroit have since been demolished or repurposed. The theater, hotel, and hospital where he died are no longer standing. The funeral home that embalmed him became a girls' art school, which eventually closed.

Despite the physical locations of Houdini's death fading, his legacy persists. Some believe his spirit still lingers in places connected to his life. Others continue to attempt contact with him through séances and rituals involving his stage props.