Kindred spirits in Toronto. Jennifer Hartman, guest blogger at Hull & Hull LP (Toronto Estate Law Blog) has published this interesting post on Harry Houdini's birthday (March 24), discussing his estate.
Says Ms. Hartman in part,
In his 23-clause-long will, which had been prepared in 1924 with a codicil added in 1925, Houdini left his collection of over 5,000 books (valued at $30,000) to the Library of Congress. His brother Theo received most of his magic equipment and memorabilia; however, Houdini stipulated that the magic apparatus be ‘burnt and destroyed’ upon Theo’s death. Two assistants received $500 each, while The Society of American Magicians received $1,000. His ‘hat rabbits’ reportedly were given to the children of friends. The balance of Houdini’s estate went to Bess, and it was enough to cover his extensive debts and to allow Bess to live comfortably. Bess also received $50,000 in life insurance money, since Houdini had remarkably purchased a double indemnity life insurance policy in the event of his accidental death.
She also notes that the Chinese Water Torture Cell still holds its mystery.
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