Expert: Kenton Scott - 2/7/2008

Question
I just found out the instrument that I've had for years is a Euphonium.  It a
stamp on the bell stating YORK GAND RAPIDS  ----MICH---- U.S.A.  Number
on the valve and bell is 128183.  Could you give any info as to date made or any
other info you may have?  thanks

Answer
The York Company was established in 1882 by James Warren York who had earlier worked for Boston Manufactory. First as a dealer and importer, and then opened a factory in 1885, assisted by Frank Holton for a year.  He changed the Co. name in 1900 to JW York and Sons. E.A. Couturier was a consultant from 1914-16.  He specialized in Cornets and Trombones until 1917.  

In 1926, the company was bought out from the York family, the company was known as York Band Instrument Co,and Alfred "Bill" Johnson became proprietor. after having previous been employed as foreman.  

The company was sold to Fischer in 1940.


Your horn dates to 1942.