* These serial numbers were provided by Bill Bamberg

It is not known when Boston started numbering instruments or at what date. As can be seen from the serial numbers, it was by 1886. The earliest number that Robb Steward reports is 7397. There are a great many unnumbered instruments known. Most of these are with rotary valves, along with some piston instruments. The vast majority of numbered Boston instruments are with piston valves. The highest number that I know of is 25206.

The Boston Musical Instrument Manufactory was formed in 1869 by Elbridge G. Wright, Samuel, George and Elbridge Graves, along with Henry Esbach and Louis F. Hartman who later became the sole owners. E.G. Wright left in 1870 to work with Hall and Quinby, and died in 1871. In about 1902 they moved from the original address, 71 Sudbury St. to 51 Chardon St. and changed the name to Boston Musical Instrument Company. The firm was purchased by Cundy Bettony in 1914, and continued operation until at least 1928.

All of the Boston catalogues and some advertisements state a founding date of 1841. This is the date that E.G. Wright set up his first shop in Boston.

If you note any discrepancies, or have additional information concerning this company, we would appreciate it VERY much if you would pass it on to The Music Trader. Thank you!