Tenor helicon, B-flat, low pitch
Maker
C. G. Conn
Date1892 -1893 ca.
Place MadeWorcester, Massachusetts, United States, North America
Place MadeElkhart, Indiana, United States, North America
ModelWonder
Serial No.29323
SignedEngraved on bell, surrounded by floral design: MADE / BY / C. G. CONN / ELKHART / IND. & / WORCESTER / MASSMarkingsEngraved on bell above signature: U. S. Q. M. D.
Stamped on valve casings, respectively: 1 2 3
Stamped on seecond valve: 29323
DescriptionHelical instruments were developed for horse-mounted military bands since they were much easier to handle when riding than upright models. Helicons of all sizes, from soprano to contrabass, rested on the player’s shoulder, much like the familiar helicon commonly known as the Sousaphone. The designation “USQMD” engraved on this instrument identifies it as part of a military order placed by the United States Quarter Master Division, the Army’s oldest logistics branch in charge of supplying combat support services.
Brass; with silver-plated, burnished finish. Three, bottom-sprung Perinet piston valves. Mother-of-pearl touchpieces.
DimensionsCoil diameter: 525 mm
Bell diameter: 250 mm
Bore (second valve slide): 13.3 mm (0.523 in)
ProvenanceArne B. Larson Collection, Vermillion, South Dakota, 1979.
Credit LineArne B. Larson Collection, 1979
Object number02960
On View
Not on view
1875-1885 ca.