Expert: Kenton Scott - 1/1/2009

Question
QUESTION: This Horn is a Fleshmen. I Believe German in origin. Plant destroyed in the WWII.  A Friend of my father gave it to him and as a child I learned to play it. It was last serviced when in College-1970. At that time I had many people wanting to purchase it from me. At the time wasn't interested but now that I don't play it any more I am considering on selling to a player or collector.
This is a double horn. Bflat and F If I recall properly.
My question is not what its worth but is it worth finding the type home previously described. VS. offing it to the first serious comer.

ANSWER: Sorry, I hit the wrong button

I find no listing for a maker of that name.  Are you certain of the spelling?



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: You're right , I was way off on that  It is difficult to say for sure because of the script used.  This is the best I can glean from it.
ED Kocaspe
Hoflieferant
G acsaacto
D.R.G.M.  232038
Made in Germany

Answer
Ed Kruspe.  


Since 1836, the Kruspe family has been making instruments in Erfurt (PREDIGER-strasse 13 and then DABERSTEDTER-strasse (now SCHILLER-Strasse])   Kruspe´s manufactory in the beginning  made flutes and clarinets. Trademark Eagle, later a lyre over a six spoked wheel,

In 1875-80 the trademark was changed to a butterfly and CK mongram.  

1896 built the first true double horn.  

The firm was purchased by Huller in 1920.

After WW II, at least some fo the assets of the Kruespe shop was consolidated in Markneukirchen.

Later sells Mr. Schneider to Mr. Heldmann.

1956-1973 - During the difficult years of the GDR, there was only one master craftsman in the shop - the owner, Mr. Schneider.

About 5 years ago, the current owner Heldman, moved the factory from Erfurt to  to WUTHA-FARNRODA near Eisenach and Wartburg (of Tannhäuser fame).

The brass factory  is still active today, with 5-10 workers building fine French horns and trombones.

More history can be found at:    www.edkruspe.de