A Tenement Time Capsule

I recently explored Manhattan’s West side: the Polyclinic Hospital where Rudolph Valentino died in 1926 (now apartments across from a city park with silver tables reflecting February’s sun, winter greenery and walk-up ethnic restaurants), and 66^th & Broadway – the original site of Frank E. Campbell’s Funeral Chapel. Enjoyable excursions all but the star of my visit was the Lower East Side Tenement Museum.

Valentino and Houdini – Linked in Death

Rudolph Valentino, the Great Lover of the silent screen, died in New York on August 23, 1926 while on a publicity tour for his new movie – The Son of the Sheik. The local and international hysteria was unprecedented.  Dozens of idol worshipers and curiosity seekers were injured when tens of thousands fought with police to gain access to Valentino’s bier at Campbell’s Funeral Chapel.