Name/Title
Bass DrumEntry/Object ID
72.257.1Description
A bentwood bass drum. The drum is a painted a dark red and features a large eagle carrying a banner in its beak that says "Pembroke Brass Band". There is a shield or coat of arms on its chest with red and white stripes surrounded by a gold floral design. In one talon it carries a branch and in the other arrows. Inside the drum it says "Made and Sold by Calvin Edwards, Gorham". The heads were once stretched animal hide but as these were cracked it was replaced by canvas. This drum was used in the Pembroke Brass Band in Pembroke, Maine.Context
Initially drums such as this one were used in bands by the militia or military. As the popularity of the brass bands grew it began to be used recreationally for celebrations, performances, and parades. More instruments such as trumpets, trombones, tubas, and French horns were added forming what we typically think of as a brass band today. Town brass bands were extremely popular in the 1850's and continued to be a town staple through the end of the 19th century.Collection
Genesee Country Village and MuseumMade/Created
Place
State/Province
MaineCountry
United States of AmericaContinent
North AmericaNotes
Mid-19th centuryLexicon
Search Terms
Drum, Base drum, Brass bandDimensions
Height
25 inDiameter
26-1/8 in
