Expert: Kenton Scott - 9/5/2009

Question
I inherited a brass trumpet. The bell of the trumpet is ornately engraved and also engraved "Made By Wm. Frank Company Chicago - Ill. U.S.A.  The trumpet has three valves with mother of pearl tops.  The serial number is 10405.  Can you tell me anything about my trumpet.  Thank you.

Answer
William Frank (b. 1876 Allentown, PA - 1932 Chicago) worked for Holton and in 1910 established his own business in Chicago. At one time, he had a work force of 32. He used American Prep, Biltmore, Barrington, and Belmore as tradenames. American Prep was his student line. The National Band Instrument Company was founded at the beginning of the 20th century by Frank. It only lasted for a few short years before changing name to William Frank and Company. Frank played French horn in the Chicago Symphony from 1904 til his death in 1932.