Expert: Kenton Scott - 6/1/2008

Question
I have a relative that supposedly played trombone in Sousa's band. We just
cleaned out and sold my folks house so I have the trombone and a picture.
The name is:

The American Standard
Manufactured by H Fehnert (elaborate lettering so hard to make out)
Phila

There's a number is 209 on it in two different areas.

I have a jpeg of the photo I could send you. The uniforms look to be
authentic Sousa. I don't see an opportunity to attach the jpeg to this email, so
if you'd like to see it, please let me know.

I don't have much more information to offer, but curious if this photo and
instrument are worth preserving. Thanks!

~Karla

Answer
The horn you have was made by Henry Lehnert of Philadelphia.  

Lehnert started his company in the 1860's.  In 1876, he began to use American Standard as his trade name until his death in 1916.

At least in his heyday, Sousa wanted his players to all use Conn instruments.

Lehnert was an interesting and innovative craftsman, the horn might be of some interest to collectors.  And, the picture may as well, depending on what is in the picture.


A reader informs me, "Can you please inform "Karla" that the book titled "The Incredible Band Of John Philip Sousa" has a complete listing of all Sousa Personnel,except 1917-1918 Navy Band. Pages can be searched by "members."  Even undocumented players are listed on a separate page."