Yesterday, I finally made the trek to the Whittier Historical Society & Museum in Whittier, California to see the exhibit called Behind Smoke and Mirrors: The History of Magic and Illusions that supposedly features one of the five famous handcuffs that are uniquely Houdini.
I say supposedly for a couple reasons.
First reason: No one showed up with the key to open the museum so I never got to see the exhibit or the Houdini display that featured one of his five famous handcuffs.
What are the five famous Houdini handcuffs you ask?
Mirror Challenge Handcuff, Séance Handcuff, the Bell Handcuff, the French Handcuff with Letter Lock and the Russian Manacle.
What famous Houdini handcuff is supposedly on display?
Closeup of Russian Manacle on Display
Russian Manacle
Second reason: Is this really the famed Russian Manacle we see Houdini actually wearing in photographs?
Steve Santini has his doubts and John Bushey believes it is THE Russian Manacle. See the Forum at Handcuffs.Org: S.A.M. collection in Whittier, for their expert opinions.
Either way, it would have been nice to see the exhibit and the Houdini display, which besides the Russian Manacle, included handcuff display boards created by Edward Saint and a dress worn by Bess Houdini.
The exhibit closes July 13th, so there is still time if someone has the key.
WTF? No one showed up with the key?
One of the docents showed up, but he was not the one with the key. We waited an hour and finally gave up.
That’s ridiculous.
Maybe next time call ahead. I’ll also join you, if you like. I’d like to have a last look before it moves on.
Sounds like a plan. It is open 1 pm to 4 pm on Saturdays and Sundays. I will follow up with you to see what will work.
Pingback: Houdini Display is Dark Again at Whittier Museum (and remains Dark) | harryhoudinicircumstantialevidence.com