Expert: Kenton Scott - 8/29/2011

Question
i inheireted a Keefer trumpet #HP11099, and know nothing about this horn. I would appreciate anything you could tell me. Model 3?, manufacturer?, etc. I tried Horn u copia and found it appears to have been made in 1922, I think? It is ornately engraved, but has tarnish all over it as it has not been used for a number of years, probably over 40,but the valves are all free and the slides also.  Thank you for any info.  Tom

Answer
Keefer was the manufacturer.  They were located in Williamsport, PA.  Keefer succeeded Henry Distin.  Distin was a very significant figure in the history of brass instruments and the popularity of brass bands.  Distin made high quality instruments, and when he sold out, Keefer took over and changed the name, but otherwise continued the traditions set by Distin.  They made quality instruments basically hand made at low volume.  It should be a good player.