Expert: Kenton Scott - 6/30/2006

Question
Hello Kenton, I am trying to find some information on an antique Hawkes & Son Wooden flute that I have acquired.  I am having a hard time researching as I cannot locate a serial number on the flute.  The only markings are a Crown, the letters "A.Z.", "Hawkes & Son" and "London" from the top down.  The flute is made of dark hardwood and has 5 keys with 6 holes for fingering.  I see that you say brass instruments, but I am at a loss for finding more info on this instrument, if you could help that would be awesome and if not... thankyou for your time.

Answer
Can't help much.  Hawkes and Son was the business's name from 1889 to 1930 when they merged with Boosey.  Before 1889, they were called Hawkes and Co.  I don't know enough about the development of flute design to know when the 5 key models were in use, but I would suspect that it is closer to 1889 than 1930.