Expert: Kenton Scott - 4/2/2008

Question
My Husband surprised me with this alto sax 10 years ago for my birthday...I have been trying to learn about it and I don't know why it is so hard to get info on it or the company.  Will you please share more insight to the history of this sax.  I am wondering if I should let my daughter use it at school or try to re-learn it myself. Can you give me a wide ball park in value--I am not sure if I am giving it the care it deserves? Is it antique and should be kept safely tucked away?  Here is the info:  gold color, Harwood Professional Jenkins Music - CO. Kansas City Mo. on bell with design around it.  On the back by thumb hold it says...84086, LOWPITCH, license, pat dec 8 1914.  The sax has sentimental value to me and I wouldn't want to sell it, in fact I have a few books and want to relearn to play and just know this instrument better.  Thank you so much for helping me.

Answer
John Woodward Jenkins (died in 1890)  was a dealer in Kansas City, MO, with the original company founded as J.W.Jenkins Co., and succeeded by J.W. Jenkins Sons,located at 1013 and 1015 Walnut St.

In the 20's and 30's they imported Bohland and Fuchs instruments from the Czech Republic which the put under the Trade Name of Harwood.

The company was an all-around retailer of possibly anything musica, including: violins, pianos and novelty instruments

In addition to their own line they also sold other makes including:   York & Sons, Gomat & co, August Henem, and Courtois.

Saxophones are not my area, but I don't believe this to be a collector's item, but I believe that they were reasonably good playing instruments.  I think it is alright for your daughter to play.  I'll be she will have the oldest sax at school!