Expert: Kenton Scott - 9/18/2007

Question
I am an archaeological conservation student who has just recieved a 3-star coronet (serial # 12573) made by Boston Musical Instrument Manufactury in about 1894. I am supposed to be writing up a conservatio report as part of my final project--both to get it to a level where it could be displayed, or to get it back to a playable condition.  I was wondering if you knew anything about the company, or about the restoration/conservation of such an instrument.
thanks
--L

Answer
The Boston Musical Instrument Manufactory was  formed in 1869 from the joining of  Graves & Co. and E. G. Wright & Co.  The firm produced  high quality brass instruments    

In 1913, the company reorganized under the name of "Boston Musical Instrument Company," and in 1919 it was bought by the Cundy-Bettoney Co.

I would concur on the manufacturing date for the instrument.  

I would have to see at least pictures of it to get an idea of whether it was restorable.  But, unless it is very poor condition it probably is.  If you want to send pictures to Kenton@punxypa.com, I may be able to tell you more about what work it needed.