Name/Title
ClarinetEntry/Object ID
1991.35.1a-eDescription
19th century rosewood and boxwood clarinet. The mouthpiece (a) is made of rosewood with a metal tip, likely with a lead repair due to wear. The bottom edge is inset to fit into the next section (b) and is wrapped with thread. The next section is slightly pear-shaped, with ivory bands at the top and bottom edges. This section is imprinted "MARSH & CHASE" very faintly from an original wood burning stamp. The top fingering section (c) has three tone holes and spring-loaded brass levers to control two additional keys. Also branded into this section is "MARSH & CHASE / CALAIS, VT" with an image of an eagle in the center. The second fingering section (d) has four tone holes down the front and three additional brass levers covering key holes. There is a missing ivory band on the top edge of this piece. It is also imprinted with "MARSH & CHASE." The bell (e) has a polished surface, ivory bands at the top and bottom, and is imprinted with the same worn trademark as section c.
All sections have carved threading where they connect to adjoining pieces, but the threading has worn somewhat.
a= Rosewood mouthpiece, possible lead repair
b= Section next to mouth piece has ivory bands at each end. Barely legible printing on front: "MARSH & CHASE"
c= Next section has three tone holes and brass levers on front and back to control two other keys. Also printed on this piece but barely legible: "MARSH & CHASE/ CALAIS, VT." with an image of an eagle in center.
d= Next section has four tone holes down front, with two more brass levers and keys. An ivory band between (c) & (d) is missing. Also imprinted with "MARSH & CHASE"
e= The bottom end section is horn-shaped and is trimmed with ivory where it connects with (d) and around bottom edge. Imprinted with same trademark as on (c) but almost worn away.Context
Cousins Perry Marsh and Nelson Chase made fifes, clarinets, and pianos in Calais from 1819 until 1836.Acquisition
Accession
1991.35Source or Donor
Kim, MaeveAcquisition Method
GiftMade/Created
Manufacturer
Marsh & ChaseDate made
1819 - 1836Place
Town
CalaisCounty
Washington CountyState/Province
VermontCountry
United States of AmericaContinent
North AmericaLexicon
Nomenclature 4.0
Nomenclature Secondary Object Term
ClarinetNomenclature Primary Object Term
Instrument, WoodwindNomenclature Sub-Class
Musical InstrumentsNomenclature Class
Musical T&ENomenclature Category
Category 06: Tools & Equipment for CommunicationMaterial
Rosewood, Ivory, Boxwood, Tin