Name/Title
Violin and CaseDescription
Violin and case made by Melvin Bassett of Kalamazoo, Michigan. On a paper, glued to the inside of the violin you can see the maker information, "Made by M. Bassett Augusta, Kalamazoo Co., Mich. 1908". No strings on the violin or horsehair in the bow. Bow has mother of pearl detail. Chin guard and other pieces in little compartment in the case. Case is black with red felt lining.
According to the donors, Bassett lived in Barry County most of his life. He was born in Ira, NY in August 1841. He married Belle Susan Cunningham in 1883. He died in Ross Township, Kalamazoo County, November 1, 1914. Buried at Oak HIll Cemetery, Battle Creek. He was a cabinetmaker - carved the alter rail - "Grapes and the Vine" for the old St. Augustine Church, Kalamazoo.
His father Augustus was a carpenter. He is a "domestic" at a neighbor's farm at the age of 18 in the 1860 Census. Listed as a carpenter and joiner at the age of 29 in the 1870 Census in Ira, NY. Listed as a farmer at 40 years old living with his family in New York. Came to Michigan about 1880 and lived in Prairieville Township in Barry County according to the 1900 census. Married his wife, Belle Susan Cunningham on August 31, 1884 in Walton, Eaton County, Michigan. Melvin was listed as a carpenter.Acquisition
Accession
2001.6Source or Donor
Wilson Bassett and Marjorie HanlonAcquisition Method
DonationCredit Line
In memory of donor's grandfather, Melvin Bassett.Relationships
Related Person or Organization
Person or Organization
Bassett, Melvin
