Images(8)

Snare drum

Maker James Sturdevant

Date1858

Place MadeWaverly, Iowa, United States, North America

Serial No.None

SignedPainted in red inside shell: WAVERLY / IOWA / 1860 / Wm WEBERDescriptionDuring the Civil War, drummers became a symbol of patriotism because they faced danger in battle despite (often) being too young to enlist. Their mastery of rudiments and nerves was vital to military success, relaying tactical messages across the battlefield. Sturdevant made this drum for use in the Home Guard Drum and Bugle Corps in Waverly, Iowa. In 1861, Iowa Governor Samuel Kirkwood fortified the state’s militias, creating these units tasked with keeping secessionist ideals at bay, particularly along the state’s shared border with Missouri. Family history indicates the drum was used by several generations, including Sturdevant’s grandson William Weber, during the Civil War and after.

Wood shell painted dark. Wood rims painted gray with eight drilled holes in each rim through which the rope passes. Rope tension. Eight leather tugs.DimensionsShell height (with rims): 310 mm (12-1/4 in)
Head diameter: 380 mm (15 in)ProvenanceSturdevant made this drum for use in the Home Guard Drum and Bugle Corps in Waverly, Iowa. In 1861, Iowa Governor Samuel Kirkwood fortified the state’s militias, creating these units tasked with keeping secessionist ideals at bay, particularly along the state’s shared border with Missouri. It may have also been used by a neighbor and family friend, William Andrew Weber (1848-1937), who later married Sturdevant’s daughter Martha (1845-1922), as well as by their son, William Andrew Weber, Jr. (1873-1953), who was James M. Sturdevant’s grandson. Family history indicates the drum was used by several generations of the family during the Civil War and after.Published ReferencesJayson Dobney. _Innovations in American Snare Drums 1850-1920_. MM Thesis, University of South Dakota, 2003: 112-113.

Arianna Van Kley and Michael Suing. _Of Thee I Sing: Origin, Heritage, and Patriotism_. National Music Museum, 2026: 58-59.

Credit LineArne B. Larson Collection, 1979

Object number00906

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