Harry Houdini in Wisconsin: Midwest Magic [2023]

Harry Houdini, the world-renowned magician and escapologist, got his start in the heartland. This is the story of Harry Houdini in Wisconsin.

✅ Listen to Harry Houdini in Wisconsin: Midwest Magic on our podcast. We release new episodes of Travel with Jack and Kitty every day! Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. 🎙️❤️

Houdini’s Humble Midwest Beginnings: A Magical Journey Through Wisconsin

Hey, travelers! Ever heard of Harry Houdini? Yep, the legendary magician and escapologist had deep roots in the Midwest, particularly in Wisconsin. Born in Budapest, Hungary, Houdini, whose real name was Erich Weisz, later claimed Appleton, Wisconsin as his birthplace. 🌍🌽

The Move to America

Houdini and his large Jewish family landed in the United States in 1878 when he was just 4. They changed their last name from “Weisz” to “Weiss,” adopting the German spelling. Houdini’s dad was actually the first rabbi of Appleton’s Jewish community. The family set up shop on Appleton Street, now known as Houdini Plaza. 🏠🗽

Appleton’s Modern-Day Charm

Today, Appleton is a Midwest gem. Its downtown is a delightful blend of history and modern-day conveniences, brimming with cute shops, cafes, and scenic views of the Fox River. If you visit, you’ll feel a magical vibe at Houdini Plaza, a lively community hub. ✨ 🏞️

Milwaukee Hustle: The Struggle Years

After Appleton, life took Houdini to Milwaukee, where he faced extreme poverty. Not one to mope, young Houdini worked multiple jobs—selling newspapers, shining shoes—to support his family. Despite the hardships, Milwaukee was where Houdini’s passion for magic and showbiz began to bloom. 🌹🏙️

Learning from Struggle

Houdini’s hard years in Milwaukee taught him the power of promotion and hard work. It was here, amidst the city’s grit, that young Houdini discovered magic and escapology, setting the stage for his future legendary acts. 🎭💪

*A young Harry Houdini at the start of his career.*

From Milwaukee to New York

Eventually, Houdini and his dad made the big move to New York City, a place that would become his lifelong home. Starting as a trapeze artist, Houdini eventually found his true calling in escape tricks and the rest, as they say, is history. 🏙️🗽

Houdini’s Unbreakable Bond with Milwaukee

Even after reaching global stardom, Houdini always had a soft spot for Milwaukee. From daredevil stunts to lectures at local universities, he returned to the city time and again, never forgetting his roots. ❤️🤝

An Unforgettable Legacy

So next time you’re in Wisconsin, remember you’re walking on the same ground as one of magic’s greatest legends. And just like Houdini, no matter how far you roam, there’s always a piece of home that stays with you. 🏡

Catch you on the next adventure, explorers! 🌟🗺️

✅ Don’t miss out! Listen to today’s podcast episode, Harry Houdini in Wisconsin: Midwest Magic – where we go even deeper into this story. Remember, we release new episodes of Travel with Jack and Kitty every day! Subscribe on your favorite podcast app. 🎙️❤️