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Military Vintage Wurlitzer....I think. Last viewed: 7 hours ago

Posts: 4 Threads: 1

I have had this drum for a while, and I was wondering if anyone could tell me more about its history and worth. It is labeled 'The Rudolph Wurlitzer Co." with 'Musical Intstruments'. Also it has Cincinnati, O USA on it and in REALLY small below that is 'The Whitehead & HCAGCD Newark NJ'. It also has what I think is the Marine symbol with a US shield and some other ornate objects on the side. There are attached photos. I don't know a lot about drums, so the top part is ripped and so is the bottom. The strands on the bottom that run across are still there and look to be made of some string or twine-like material. The metal parts that hold the head down are there I think (5 remain). I also have the sticks that came with it. Is this unique because of the symbol? How old is it roughly? And last but not least, is it worth anything? Thanks for all the help!!

Here is a link with more pictures.

http://web.me.com/scrappyirish/Drum/Photos.html

Posted on 14 years ago
#1
Posts: 4 Threads: 1

Hey, thanks for the 'welcome'! I measured the top diameter and it is 16in and it stands 8.25 in high. And yes, it is brass in the center area, but the top and bottom rings, and everything else, is wood. I never even noticed it is brass!!! I should probably wipe away the dust and dirt. I am too afraid to clean it though since it is already in such bad shape. My grandpa was in the marines, but I don't think he was a drummer. Is this the kind of thing that can be repaired? Can I clean it off? Is is actually worth something. Right now it just decorates the bar I built in the garage. I'll post more pictures later, drum sticks too. I love hearing about these things! Thanks for the quick reply!!!

Posted on 14 years ago
#2
Posts: 4 Threads: 1

That's so cool! I posted some more pics if you would like to see. You've been really helpful. I wiped it down with a slightly damp rag just to knock off the dust. Looks better now. I don't think I'll try polishing it, or anything like that. I'd probably just screw it up. If I did decide to sell it, where do you recommend I go and do that? Being single parent I think I can find something else to decorate the bar area of the garage! Hahaha. One last question, if you don't mind. How old roughly is this thing? I'm gonna go make sure its not a family treasure before I go and sell it though. Its crazy how it was just sitting around for YEARS collecting dust! I know I said it before, but thanks for all the help!

http://web.me.com/scrappyirish/Drum/Photos.html

Posted on 14 years ago
#3
Posts: 966 Threads: 213

What a fantastic piece of history. I agree that you should not attempt too much cleaning. That patina can't be replaced and adds to the value in my opinion. There are several places that could replace your calf skin heads. You can also get replacement snare cords, which in this case are made from natural gut. Value? In addition to snare collectors, your drum would appeal to collectors of military history. In the current condition, my guess is it would sell for at least a couple hundred dollars if not more.

There's plenty of great information here at VDF, but you may also want to hunt around on http://blog.fielddrums.com/ I have no affiliation with them, but visit the site periodically for field drum info.

Best of luck and keep us posted.

jim

...
'68 Ludwig Ruby Red Strata
'68 Ludwig Mod Orange
'58 Gretsch Starlight Sparkle
'69 Ludwig Clubdate BDP
'60s Ludwig Clubdate Black Lacquer / Nickel
'67 Trixon Speedfire Red
COB Ludwig Supra
Many projects
Bunch o snares
Posted on 14 years ago
#4
Posts: 3268 Threads: 715

That is an early 1900's (1914) Marines Snare Drum.

I believe (Basic research, no cold hard facts) that it was an important year for the Marines. The drum was some type of commemorative or military drum for the Marines at that time.

There is a complete drum that was part of the Ludwig family collection that I have the honor of keeping in my collection.

David

Posted on 14 years ago
#5
Posts: 3268 Threads: 715

Here is the badge on the one I'm holding on to.

It is always nice to get a second opinion!

Also, the one I'm sitting on Sumo Dude

is 100% complete with the drum key and leg rest..

I think a photo shoot is in order

David

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Posted on 14 years ago
#6
Posts: 4 Threads: 1

From auto.pilot

What a fantastic piece of history. I agree that you should not attempt too much cleaning. That patina can't be replaced and adds to the value in my opinion. There are several places that could replace your calf skin heads. You can also get replacement snare cords, which in this case are made from natural gut. Value? In addition to snare collectors, your drum would appeal to collectors of military history. In the current condition, my guess is it would sell for at least a couple hundred dollars if not more. There's plenty of great information here at VDF, but you may also want to hunt around on http://blog.fielddrums.com/ I have no affiliation with them, but visit the site periodically for field drum info. Best of luck and keep us posted.jim

The last few days I have been obsessed with finding out more information on this drum! So far this is the best place. Almost impossible to find anything on the internet that looks even remotely like mine. I think I'll leave it like it is, and if I ever get rid of it, that person can fix it up. The way it looks now gives it some cool character. I'll keep looking for some more history and facts behind it. Thanks for the post!

Posted on 14 years ago
#7
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