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A Century Later, Houdini’s Detroit Legacy Lives On

Oct 30, 2026 | 10:18 AM

Photo: AP

PODCAST

Chris and Lloyd talk to Jeremy Dimick, the Director of Collections and Curatorial for the Detroit Historical Society about the life and death of Harry Houdini who died in Detroit 100 years ago.

DETROIT ~ As Halloween approaches, Detroit is reflecting on its unique connection to Harry Houdini, the legendary escape artist who died in the city on Oct. 31, 1926, after a ruptured appendix. According to Detroit Historical Society curator Jeremy Dimmick, Houdini performed in Detroit 19 times during his career, rising from a little-known vaudeville performer to one of the world’s most famous entertainers.

Nearly 100 years after his death, Houdini’s legacy continues to captivate audiences in Detroit. The Detroit Historical Museum is marking the anniversary with a Halloween event featuring magic performances, historical artifacts and exhibits highlighting Houdini’s long relationship with the city where his life came to an end.

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