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Tremolo harmonica, A
Maker: C. H. Meinel
Date: 1885-1900 ca.
Place Made:Germany, Europe
Model: Kentucky Home
Serial No: none
SignedStamped on the front casing: The Kentucky Home / Harmonica / C. H. Meinel Schlossmeinel – Make, Germany
Markingsnone
DescriptionMetal casings with cream-colored celluloid covers, wood comb with honey colored varnish. The covers slide, allowing easy access to the reeds.
The inspiration for this model is uncertain. Harmonica makers and distributors were masters of marketing and promotion, often making commemorative models to take advantage of known people, places and events. Kentucky became a state in 1792, so 1892 would mark its centennial. The Kentucky Derby began in 1872, which is certainly a noteworthy event. Finally, Stephen Foster composed "My Old Kentucky Home" about 1850, a so-called sentimental minstrel song, which later became the Kentucky state song, despite its obviously sensitive subject matter and history. Additionally, the song is recited annually at the Kentucky Derby. All this to say, a late 19th or early 20th century dating of this instrument is appropriate for the stated historical reasons.
The inspiration for this model is uncertain. Harmonica makers and distributors were masters of marketing and promotion, often making commemorative models to take advantage of known people, places and events. Kentucky became a state in 1792, so 1892 would mark its centennial. The Kentucky Derby began in 1872, which is certainly a noteworthy event. Finally, Stephen Foster composed "My Old Kentucky Home" about 1850, a so-called sentimental minstrel song, which later became the Kentucky state song, despite its obviously sensitive subject matter and history. Additionally, the song is recited annually at the Kentucky Derby. All this to say, a late 19th or early 20th century dating of this instrument is appropriate for the stated historical reasons.
DimensionsLength: 119.5 mm
Height: 22.5 mm
Width: 30.3 mm
Height: 22.5 mm
Width: 30.3 mm
ProvenancePurchased by donor, April 1994.
Terms
Credit Line: Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000
Not on view
Object number: 08051