October’s gathering of the Society of American Magicians Assembly #12 was a special evening dedicated to one of magic’s most legendary figures: Harry Houdini!
With October 31, 2026, marking the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s passing, our assembly came together to celebrate his remarkable life and enduring legacy through performances, historical presentations, fascinating stories, and plenty of camaraderie.
Fifteen members and guests attended the gathering at Eagle Magic Store in Burnsville, graciously hosted by Larry and Jennifer Kahlow.
Assembly Business & Upcoming Opportunities
President Brad Gudim opened the meeting with a brief discussion of assembly business and upcoming activities.
Treasurer Jeff Kohagen provided a financial update, followed by discussion of future lectures, membership growth, and opportunities to reconnect with former and less-active members.
Our lecture committee, consisting of Larry Kahlow and Paul Ladig, continues exploring opportunities to bring guest lecturers to our assembly.
We also discussed the possibility of bringing a future S.A.M. National Convention to the Twin Cities, potentially in 2030.
Brad shared several exciting ideas for expanding magic’s presence in Minnesota, including his Magic Lounge performance series, along with concepts for magic-themed cruises and a possible magic festival.
Members also exchanged information about upcoming magic events throughout the Twin Cities, including additional celebrations honoring Houdini.
With business concluded, it was time for the main event!
Magic Manny: The King of Cards Meets the Siberian Chain Escape
Magic Manny kicked off the Houdini-themed performances with a lighthearted tribute to Houdini’s early reputation as the “King of Cards.”
His presentation began with a dream in which Houdini himself challenged him to an unusual game of Three-Card Monte.
Using custom-made cards featuring escape trunks and handcuffs, Manny attempted to follow Houdini’s elusive handcuffs through a series of increasingly impossible revelations. Naturally, the legendary escape artist remained one step ahead!
Manny then transitioned into the classic Siberian Chain Escape, first sharing some lesser-known historical information about the effect, including its uncertain origins and evidence that a version was commercially advertised as early as 1910.
With the assistance of our secretary, Todd Anderson, Manny was secured in the chains and padlock before attempting his own escape.
He concluded with a brief reflection on Houdini’s devotion to his wife, Bess, and the idea that genuine love can help us overcome even life’s most difficult obstacles.
It was a fun opportunity to combine magic, history, humor, and a little sentiment in honor of the legendary escape artist.
Paul Ladig: Classic Escapes and Houdini Trivia
Next, Paul Ladig, “The Vintage Magician,” treated members to an entertaining combination of Houdini trivia, historical memorabilia, and escape artistry.
Paul challenged the group with questions about Houdini’s life and career, including his family’s early years in America and his famous appearances in Minneapolis.
He also displayed an antique set of heavy leg irons, giving everyone an appreciation for the formidable restraints associated with Houdini’s escapes.
With the assistance of two volunteers, Paul demonstrated the Hungarian Chain Escape, recreating the suspense of a classic Houdini-style escape using restraints and a curtain.
His presentation was an enjoyable blend of history, humor, audience participation, and classic escape magic.
Larry Kahlow: A Fascinating Journey Through Houdini’s Life
One of the evening’s highlights was an extensive historical presentation by our host, Larry Kahlow, whose knowledge of magic history provided a fascinating look at Houdini’s extraordinary career and final days.
Larry helped set the atmosphere with a lighted pumpkin featuring Houdini’s face—a fitting touch for our October gathering!
He discussed Houdini’s early struggles as a performer, his eventual rise to international fame, and the important role that publicity and public challenges played in establishing his reputation.
Of particular interest were Houdini’s connections to Minnesota, including his appearances in the Twin Cities and his famous aerial straitjacket escape in downtown Minneapolis on September 29, 1915.
Larry also explored Houdini’s relationships with other prominent magicians and his later efforts to expose fraudulent spiritualists who claimed to communicate with the dead.
The presentation took a particularly moving turn as Larry recounted the circumstances surrounding Houdini’s final performances and death in Detroit on Halloween in 1926.
Drawing from historical books and accounts, he described Houdini’s determination to continue performing despite serious illness, his hospitalization, and his final days surrounded by loved ones.
Larry concluded with a touching passage attributed to Houdini expressing his devotion to his mother and his wife, Bess.
It was a fitting reminder that behind the legendary escapes and larger-than-life publicity was a remarkable individual whose influence continues to resonate a century later.
Brad Gudim: A Mysterious Brass Tube and Silk Vanish
Our president, Brad Gudim, stepped forward with an intriguing close-up effect involving a brass tube, a silk, and a mysterious character known as the Crimson Conjurer.
Brad’s presentation explored the differences between transposition and transportation in magic while demonstrating a clever effect using seemingly ordinary objects.
Following the performance, Brad generously shared the ingenious workings behind the effect, sparking discussion among members about the creativity and craftsmanship involved.
These opportunities to exchange ideas and explore the mechanics of magic are among the many benefits of gathering with fellow magicians.
Kevin Smith: Exploring Houdini’s Paper Magic
Next, Kevin Smith shared an interesting presentation about the book Houdini’s Paper Magic, written by Walter Gibson, who was closely associated with Houdini.
Kevin discussed the book’s collection of paper tricks, puzzles, and other curiosities before demonstrating a classic paper-cutting puzzle.
Starting with a relatively small sheet of paper, he carefully made a series of cuts that ultimately transformed it into a loop large enough for a person to step through!
He also discussed Möbius strips and other mathematical puzzles that have fascinated magicians and audiences for generations.
It was a wonderful reminder that sometimes the simplest materials can produce surprisingly entertaining magic.
Steve: The Magic Happens in Your Head!
Our final presentation came from Steve, who offered a fascinating exploration of the psychology of magic and the ways our minds can deceive us.
Drawing from his experiences as an educator, Steve shared a thought-provoking observation:
“Don’t believe everything you believe.”
His central message was that much of the magic we experience happens not in the objects themselves, but in how our brains interpret what we see and feel.
To demonstrate, Steve presented an unusual experiment involving three decks of cards.
Participants were asked to compare the apparent weight of the combined decks with that of an individual deck. Surprisingly, the single deck seemed heavier than all three combined!
The demonstration left members astonished and sparked a lively discussion about perception, expectations, and why our minds can still be fooled even when we understand what’s happening.
It was a terrific conclusion to the evening’s performances and a reminder that the psychology behind magic can be every bit as fascinating as the tricks themselves.
A Special Houdini Keepsake for Everyone
As the evening drew to a close, we had one final surprise for everyone in attendance.
To commemorate the centennial of Houdini’s passing, our assembly presented each attendee with a specially designed “Remembering Houdini – S.A.M. Assembly #12” commemorative button, featuring Houdini’s portrait.
The SAM 12 board had the pleasure of designing and arranging the production of these keepsakes specifically for our October gathering.
It was wonderful seeing everyone receive their buttons, and we hope they will serve as lasting reminders of a memorable evening shared with fellow magicians.
Keeping the Magic Alive
A century after his passing, Harry Houdini remains one of the most recognizable names in magic.
His extraordinary determination, showmanship, innovation, and ability to capture the public’s imagination continue to inspire magicians around the world.
Our October gathering was a wonderful opportunity to revisit that legacy while sharing performances, stories, knowledge, and friendship with fellow enthusiasts.
Thank-you to Larry Kahlow for hosting our assembly, Jennifer Kahlow for providing the wonderful refreshments, and everyone who performed, participated, or attended!
We look forward to seeing everyone at our next gathering on Friday, November 20, at 7:00 PM at Eagle Magic Store in Burnsville!
P.S. – Got Magic You No Longer Use?
Start gathering those unused tricks, props, books, DVDs, and other magic treasures! We’re planning a S.A.M. 12 Magic Auction in early 2027, where members can buy, sell, and discover some hidden gems. It’s a great opportunity to clear out your magic drawer, make a few bucks, and perhaps find your next favorite effect!
— Magic Manny
Vice President, S.A.M. Assembly #12
