Appleton to install historic marker honoring Harry Houdini on 100th anniversary of death

Curator's Note

Creative Downtown Appleton, Inc. is proceeding with plans to install an official Wisconsin Historical Marker on the south side of Houdini Plaza, near the Houdini bronze bust. Houdini is a local legend, as he was raised in Appleton.

The placement of the monument coincides with the upcoming celebration of the 100th anniversary of Houdini’s death. The Society of American Magicians Annual Convention is coming to Appleton in July to also commemorate the centennial.

Mallory Allen March 17, 2026 8:34 pm Appleton Wisconsin Comment

APPLETON (WLUK) — A new sign will commemorate one of Appleton’s most famous residents ahead of the 100th anniversary of his death.

Creative Downtown Appleton, Inc. has been seeking approval to install an official Wisconsin Historical Marker on the south side of Houdini Plaza, near the Houdini bronze bust. Houdini is a local legend, as he was raised in Appleton. He died on Halloween in 1926.

“There’s currently a bust of Harry Houdini that was placed years ago, and we’d love to have these two items kind of close together to really celebrate the life and connection with Harry Houdini here in Appleton,” said Jennifer Stephany, executive director of Appleton Downtown, Inc.

In February, the Wisconsin Historical Society granted pre-application approval for the proposal, and on Tuesday, the Appleton Historic Preservation Commission unanimously approved the project.

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