Houdini Mourning Card
I figured it was time for everyone to see a Houdini mourning card after today’s auction and yesterday’s post here. This card and envelope, was sent out by Beatrice Houdini to acknowledge and thank people who came to Houdini’s funeral or wake. Bess would send out an invitation a year later to the unveiling of Houdini’s headstone. That one I’ll post on another day. I hope you enjoyed this ephemeral piece from the final chapter on the story of Harry Houdini.
Here’s a mention of Mr. H. Elliott Stuckel and his connection with Houdini.
http://houdini.intervalmagic.com/articles/1926_11.03.html
Apparently Mr. Stuckel was Houdini’s business manager. Interesting that the New York Times article mentioned that Houdini’s body would not lie in state in accordance with family wishes. I’ve seen that photo of Houdini in an open coffin with mourners lined up to see his body. What gives?
I believe that to be “lying in state” would be a public showing in some type of public place, as opposed to a funeral home where it would be more family and private. Just my thoughts … Love that Houdini guy.
Off the top of my head, I thought he was laid out at the Elks Club. He definitely was on view to the public at least at one place before he was buried.
All you can see in that Houdini casket photo is a bit of his forehead and nose extending past the side of the coffin. I don’t believe the photographers were allowed to stand next to the coffin and snap a complete picture.
Strangely enough, in our house Houdini is alive and well.
That’s because you have to keep buying more Houdini to keep the light glowing, sort of like Peter Pan.
Use candles!!!
I can’t use candles. Someone doesn’t like them, especially when they are lit.