$6,000
Houdini, Harry (Ehrich Weiss). Important File of Letters from Harry Kellar to Houdini. Los Angeles, 1917 – 21. Ten letters total, between two and four pages each, on Kellar’s personal letterhead, folded 4tos, signed “Harry Kellar”, “Kellar”, or “H.K.” and addressed “My dear Harry Houdini” or “My dear Prince Harry”, concerning numerous subjects and filled with fascinating content, including references and comments on Houdini’s performances, travels, and engagements, nuggets of advice and suggestions to Houdini (complimenting his success with the “big Lady Elephant”), scattered recollections by Kellar from his own career, and thoughts and comments on a multitude of notable magicians of the day including Arnold DeBiere, Adelaide Herrmann, Floyd Thayer, Burling Hull, the death of Chung Ling Soo, Alexander, and others, and other contemporary events including World War I, family affairs, travel, and personal matters. Sold with an eleventh letter from Kellar, to Frederick Eugene Powell (Apr. 3, 1919), informing Powell of Kellar’s brother’s death. Also with Grossman’s carbon typescript summary of the letters, as presented to the Magic Collector’s Association (Chicago, 1972), and facsimile copies of three additional Kellar letters to Houdini. Letters numbered sequentially in pencil. 29 Apr. 1921: “I really could never guess what risky stunt you were going to do at Niagara. I only hope you are not going to take any of your dare-devil chances with your life.” 15 Oct. 1918: “Am surprised
Auctioneer:
Potter & Potter
Date:
2017-06-10
