Not only was Houdini's childhood spent in poverty, but the individual family members seemed often to be at odds with each other. Houdini's family had its share of conflicts. Though a lot has been written about Houdini's devotion to his mother, it is clear that he was also close to, and proud of, his father, as can be seen the notes he wrote in the family bible. Samuel Weiss was a rabbi who died in 1892 of cancer, before his son's magical career got started. Heading the family were Mayer Samuel (1829-1892) and Cecilia (1841-1913), Houdini's mother and father.

Herman was really Houdini's half brother, from Rev. (1879-1962) and one sister, Gladys Carrie (born 1882 - unknown year of death). He was four years old when his family moved to America, sailing into New York on Jon the S.S. Though he claimed throughout his life that Appleton, Wisconsin was his birthplace (and April 6 his birthdate), he was really born in Budapest, Hungary. Houdini was born Erich Weiss on March 24, 1874. The Houdini myth is about to be examined, and truth really is stranger than fiction! His name is synonymous with escapes his ability to get out of seemingly impossible situations- and his knack for publicizing these events- made him a legend in his own time.

There is no question that Houdini is the most famous magician in history. Please CLICK HERE before copying this information

The magic of houdini