Expert: Kenton Scott - 2/14/2009

Question
i have my grandfathers horn is it a trumpet or acornet can you provide any info. on the maker and the quality of the horn john heald co. springfield mass american premeir model#57844 date of patent 1884 thanks brian

Answer
He established his instrument manufactory and repair shop in 1889, first at 23 Taylor Street, 275 Main Street and 1617 Main Street. Springfield MA, and closed his business in 1927. John died, at age 90, in 1933

With that patent, I assume it has a split water key on it, which is what the patent is for.  I have only seen split water keys on cornets, so I assume that is what the instrument is.

And, I have seen the American Premier name before, but not associated with John Heald. So, that is interesting.

Heald has a reputation for making quality instruments, and received a number of patents.  

If you would care to share, I'd be interested in seeing pictures of this horn.  You could send them to Kenton@punxypa.com