Name/Title
MelodeonEntry/Object ID
2024.334.1Description
A melodeon. This is an early version of a type of reed organ. The melodeon uses suction to draw the air through metal reeds. No. 8897, Patented Dec. 26, 1846. George A. Prince & Co., Buffalo, NY.
With the invention of the “improved melodeon,” the mechanism, patented by Jeremiah Carhart in 1846, became very popular in the mid-1800s. Melodeons look like small, square grand pianos with a rectangular box atop four legs.
This melodeon likely has a rosewood case with bead moulding. The right pedal operates the bellows which hold the air. The keys are made of natural bone.Context
Lucille Grams donated this Melodeon to the Ripon Historical Society. Lucille Grams, daughter of B. A. Mosling, founder of Oshkosh Truck, leveraged her wealth to help many people and organizations throughout Wisconsin.
While she supported a broad range of charities, Grams was an enthusiastic supporter of the arts in the Ripon area. Most of all, she loved music. Grams was a supporter of the Green Lake Music Festival and a champion of supporting young musical artists.
She was a treasured member of the Ripon community and is remembered for her remarkable generosity and her positive influence in people’s lives.Acquisition
Accession
2024.334Source or Donor
Lucille GramsAcquisition Method
DonationLexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Tertiary Object Term
MelodeonNomenclature Secondary Object Term
OrganNomenclature Primary Object Term
Instrument, KeyboardNomenclature Sub-Class
Musical InstrumentsNomenclature Class
Musical T&ENomenclature Category
Category 06: Tools & Equipment for Communication
