Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford Houdini's Detective and her 1500 Dead Husbands (Part 2)
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Mar 21, 2025 In this captivating conversation, Rose Mackenberg, a private investigator known for her clever disguises and partnerships with Harry Houdini, shares her thrilling journey in exposing fraudulent mediums. Together, they push for a bill to protect consumers from deception in Washington, facing violent confrontations and a dramatic congressional hearing. The tension escalates as Houdini battles against prominent spiritualist Arthur Conan Doyle, highlighting their contrasting beliefs. Mackenberg's unique experiences with 1,500 deceased husbands add an intriguing twist to their quest for truth.
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The Widow's Investment
- A Chicago widow consults a medium about investing her husband's death settlement.
- The medium recommends a company run by his associate.
Houdini's Exposé
- Houdini and Rose Mackenberg exposed fraudulent mediums in his show.
- Rose investigated and gathered evidence against the mediums, like the one involving the Wilcox Transportation Company.
Houdini's Testimony
- Houdini testified before Congress, advocating for stricter laws against mediums.
- He categorized mediums as either "mental degenerates" or "deliberate cheats and frauds."
