Expert: Kenton Scott - 5/10/2010

Question
I am a semi retired professional trumpet player but I still free lance on a casual basis. Recently I acquired a Bb trumpet engraved Indiana Band Inst Co Elkhart Ind USA, with an Indian head, arrowhead, and some other fancy trim on the bell.The serial number is 11553.The valves are top sprung and the bore is small, about the same as a Conn 22B. It is silver plated with a gold wash inner bell.The overall condition is very good.
        I am astonished as to how well this horn plays,very responsive with excellent tone and intonation. My question to you is how old is this trumpet and where might I find more information on the Indiana Band Co. All I know is that the Company was acquired by Martin about 1928 (38?) and it became the student/stencil line for them from 1942 on for several years.This one appears to date before the Martin acquisition. Any information you could give me would be greatly appreciated.
                                    Thank you,
                                               Bill B.

Answer
Indiana wasn't exactly acquired by Martin, it was  established in 1938 by Martin President Fred Holtz.  The line was incorporated into Martin in 1942.  It is unclear what the marketing strategy was, but several companies decided to have sister companies (ex. York and Grand Rapids).  


Bill, you had better re-read the questions you asked.   You apparently were looking for answers to questions you didn't ask.