Columbus, Kansas was a busy coal, lead and zinc mining town in the late 1890s. With a population of approximately 2300, there were plenty of people ready to be entertained. The California Concert Company at this time included both the Houdini and the Keaton families! Shows were at the Columbus Opera House. I am not sure where they stayed, but likely places are Middaugh House, Arcade Rush House or the Hutchson House.  Any information or photos regarding Houdini's stays in Columbus or of the opera house / hotels would be of great value to the book and research. Credit for any information or photos will be given in the book.