Harry Houdini (Tom Boldt via Fox 11 Online)
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A new sign will commemorate one of Appleton’s most famous residents ahead of the 100th anniversary of his death.
Creative Downtown Appleton, Inc. has been seeking approval to install an official Wisconsin Historical Marker on the south side of Houdini Plaza, near the Houdini bronze bust. Houdini is a local legend, as he was raised in Appleton. He died on Halloween in 1926.
“There’s currently a bust of Harry Houdini that was placed years ago, and we’d love to have these two items kind of close together to really celebrate the life and connection with Harry Houdini here in Appleton,” said Jennifer Stephany, executive director of Appleton Downtown, Inc.
In February, the Wisconsin Historical Society granted pre-application approval for the proposal, and on Tuesday, the Appleton Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the project.
Here is what the marker will read:
Born Erik Weiss in Budapest, Hungary, Harry Houdini became a world-famous magician and escape artist. His family immigrated to the United States when he was 4 years old, settling in Appleton in 1878. His father, Mayer Samuel Weiss, served as the first rabbi for Appleton’s Zion Reform Jewish Congregation. Throughout his career, Houdini proclaimed Appleton as his hometown. In 1897 he performed with his wife, Bess, at the Appleton Opera House and challenged the local police by escaping from their handcuffs and a jail cell. Houdini’s career soared after traveling to Europe in 1900 where he did numerous escapes and stunts. Houdini was not only highly regarded as a performer but was an author, pioneer aviator, silent film star, inventor and a collector. Appleton proudly remembers its connection to the legendary “Handcuff King” as a testament to his enduring legacy and prestigious career.
Officials hope to have the plaque installed by Halloween, which will mark exactly one century since Houdini died.
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