Note: Serial numbers marked with an asterisk (*)
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.
Please, if you note any discrepancies, or have additional information relating to
this company, we would appreciate it VERY much if you would pass it on to us here at The Music
Trader. Thank you very much!