Harry Houdini

Harry Houdini (March 24, 1874 – October 31, 1926) was the stage name of Ehrich Weiss (born Weisz Erik in the native Hungarian), one of the most famous magicians, escapologists, and stunt performers of all time as well as an investigator of spiritualists.

Early life

Houdini was born on March 24 1874 in Budapest, Hungary, of Jewish background. In 1878, his family emigrated to the United States. At first, they lived in Appleton, Wisconsin, where his father, Mayer Samuel Weiss, served as rabbi of the Zion Reform Jewish Congregation. After losing his tenure, Mayer moved to New York City with Ehrich in 1887, where they lived in a boarding-house on East Seventy-ninth Street. Mr. Weiss later called for the rest of his family to join him once he found more permanent housing.

Related Topics:
March 24 - 1874 - Budapest - Hungary - Jew - 1878 - United States - Appleton - Wisconsin - Rabbi - New York City - 1887

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The name "Harry" came from a family pet name for Ehrich, Ehrie (rhymes with 'Harry').

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~