Anna Eva Fay

Anna Eva Fay (1851-1927), born Anna Eva Heathman, was a Spiritualist popular in vaudeville during the late 1800s, where she billed herself as "The Indescribable Phenomenon".

Between 1870 and 1874 the eminent scientist William Crookes conducted a series of controversial experiments with some of the most remarkable mediums of the age, including Fay.

Washington Irving Bishop, who had worked with her as an assistant and manager, exposed her methods to a newspaper. She was also investigated by Harry Houdini, to whom she eventually admitted many of her tricks, after her retirement.

The Magic Circle made her an honorary member, designating her an Honorary Lady Associate, since women at that time were not eligible to be a members.

Her son, John Truesdale Fay (1877-?) also had an act with his wife billing themselves as "The Fays."

References

• http://www.encyclopedia.com/doc/1G1-58545669.html
• http://www.randi.org/encyclopedia/Fay,%20Anna%20Eva.html
• The Indescribable Phenomenon: The Life and Mysteries of Anna Eva Fay. Barry H. Wiley. Hermetic Press, Inc.