Expert: Kenton Scott - 9/19/2010

Question
QUESTION: i have had an old trombone that is etched "Kid Ory" made by the F.E.Olds Co. in 1904. I also have old club flyers that advertised his performances so i know he was a well known jazz musician. What can you tell me about this instrument? Thank you

ANSWER: Well, I'm not sure what you have, but it isn't what you describe.  Olds wasn't yet in business in 1904, so at least the date is wrong.  Kid Ory was a dixieland tailgate trombonist.  He played for a lot of years probably professionally around 1910, and died in the 1970s.



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QUESTION: I checked it closer and the date looks like 1908. Can this be one of his trombones? Can it be authenticated and is it of any value. (im not asking for an appraisal) Thanks again

Answer
I'm not sure what you are seeing on the horn that you are using for dating it.  Possibly, it if has 1908 on it, it may actually be a serial number, or could it be a patent date?  

If it is a serial number, then is was made in approximately 1921.  I'm sure it has some value.  Olds specialized in trombones in its early years.  And, his horns were of superior quality.