Antique Musical Instruments/W. Frank Co. Bugle

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Expert: - 8/31/2011


Question
I just aquired a single valve bugle to add to a turn of the 19th/20th century Indian War/Spanish American War display. It is completely tarnished and with a stuck valve. The bell is stamped W Frank Co. Barrington, Ill.
When I bought it the previous owner stated he thought it was a Western Army Post (fort) bugle. I don't believe it dates before 1890. Any help would be appreciated.
I was a Cocert Band member (Trumpet/coronet/baratone horn) thru high school. Wish I'd never given it up.

Answer
Is this the Frank bugle with the #1 on the bell or the one with the #34 on the valve casing?  We have recently been discussing these two bugles in another venue.  It may be easier if you would contact me directly at Kenton@Horn-u-copia.net, to better determine what you have.  If you have a different instrument, I would welcome some pictures.  

Antique Musical Instruments

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Kenton Scott

Expertise

Please note: My area is BRASS instruments, not other wind, string or percussion instruments. I will provide information on antique, obscure and out of production BRASS instruments. 1) Please don't ask for evaluations, I'll not provide them on this site. 2) I am often asked very similar questions, so I'd invite you to first check on Horn-u-Copia.net. Much of the information I have garnered about this topic, I have posted on this WEB site.

Experience

I perform in several historical bands, have informally researched the area, repair brass instruments, and operate a Forum dedicated to the topic at http://horn-u-copia.net

Education/Credentials
B.S. Ed, M.S.

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