The history of the Zobo as told by the coverage in the Music Trade Review
(and some other sources)
Music Trade Review 1895-21-15-04
The Zobo.
THE MOST POPULAR LITTLE INSTRUMENT NOW BEFORE THE TRADE.
The Zobo is the name of a fascinating little musical instrument
which is just now taking the country by storm. It is the invention of W. H.
Frost, the inventor of the Kazoo, which was tremendously popular some years ago.
The Zobo is a marked improvement on the Kazoo, however, arid an idea of its
popularity can be gleaned from the fact that over four hundred thousand Zobos
and Zobo Cornet and Cornetos are now in use, although the invention is but a few
months old. Anyone can play the Zobo, no instruction being necessary. You sing
into it and get any effect desired. For home amusement, church or society
entertainments, street parades, "high old times "for dancing, quartettes, solos,
or for bands and orchestras, it cannot be excelled. The Zobo has become such a
popular favorite that Mr. Frost has gotten out a line of Zobo brass band
instruments, embracing the cornet, alto cornet, saxaphone, bass horn and
piccolo. The principle of the Zobo is novel but simple, and, like all successful
inventions, the wonder is that some one did not think o- it before. The voice is
transformed into a reed instrument by the resonant diaphragm, and having per
formed its work in producing the tone, the voice is lost through the vent
provided for that purpose, while the resonance of the diaphragm is given volume
and intonation by the instrument to which it is attached, and its material,
construction and size determines the quality and intonation of the complete
instrument. By the use of the Zobo instruments it is thus possible to reproduce
all the brasses and reeds of a brass band, making it possible to organize whole
bands and orchestras. Moreover, although the Zobo brass instruments are of solid
brass, highly polished and lacquered, Mr. Frost has put them on the market at
surprisingly low figures, the retail price of a full Brass Quartette, embracing
cornet, alto cornet, saxaphone and brass horn, being only $8.25. Quartettes and
glee clubs will be especially interested in these instruments, while we shall
expect to see every campaign club of 1896 marching to the stirring strains of
its own Zobo Brass Band. One of the interesting uses of the Zobo is the "Zobo
Patriotic Drill," originated by the Sisters of Mercy in charge of St. Anne's
Academy, at Fort Smith, Ark., and given with great success at their closing
exercises of June 21st, 1895. The Fort Smith Times says of it: "The hit of the
day then followed, the Zobo drill. The Zobo is a new instrument to Fort
Smith, and its effect is novel and charming. It is worth going a long way to see.
There was marching and singing the Red, White and Blue and other popular airs.
Flags floated and patriotism was at fever heat and on dress parade."Mr. Frost
was so impressed with this feature that he gives full instructions for its
production in the directions which go with every instrument. We take pleasure in
printing a sketch of this very entertaining drill, which is only one of the many
novel arrangements possible. The leading jobbers in New York, Chicago, Boston
and all the important music trade centers are handling the Zobo. The Zobo is one
of the best things in its line before the trade to-day. It is sold at such
a price that it leaves a satisfactory margin of profit to the dealer. It will
undoubtedly make Mr. Frost a wealthy man, and he deserves it. Dealers should
order a trial lot of their jobber, and not forget to ask for the very attractive
window display which seems to multiply the sales amazingly. Mr. Frost is always
glad to see any of the trade at his establishment at 35 Frankfort street, and is
always pleased to receive inquiries.
MTR-1895-21-20-11 (Dec 7th 1895)
The Zobo in Concert.
THAT popular
instrument, the Zobo, is becoming a huge favorite everywhere. W. H. Frost, the
manufacturer, is experiencing quite a boom in trade these days, owing to the
approach of the holidays. By the way, the Zobo brass band instruments will be
used at the grand concert to be given in the Emmanuel Baptist Church, Suffolk
street, near Grand, on next Wednesday evening, Dec. nth.
MTR-1895-21-21-03 (Dec 14th 1895)
T
HE Zobo is the talk of the country. This fascinating little musical instrument is
selling like the proverbial "hot cakes." It is proving one of the greatest holiday novelties on the market. Over half a million Zobos,
Zobo cornets and cornetos are now in use, both for home amusement, church and society entertainments, parades, bands and orchestras; in
fact, they have become such a popular favorite that Mr. Frost, the inventor, has all he can do to supply the demands of the trade.
The great success of the Zobo is attributable to the fact that any one can play it; no instruction being necessary. You simply sing into it and get any effect
you desire. For instance, in the Zobo brass band instruments, which embrace the cornet, alto cornet, saxaphone, bass horn and piccolo, the
voice is transformed into a reed or brass instrument, thus making it possible to organize whole bands and orchestras. The Zobo is sold at a
popular price, and a full brass quartet can be purchased for $8.25.
One important fact should be borne in mind, namely, that
the Zobo is not a novelty, just made for the holidays. It is here to
stay, and it is bound to grow in popularity month after month. Dealers
will find as great a demand for this instrument in the spring as at
present, and during the Presidential campaign of '96 we will be
surprised if the Zobo is not used by every campaign club in the country.
Hence dealers will readily recognize that it is a staple instrument, not
for the day, but for all time.
Dealers who have not yet ordered a trial lot of Zobos
should do so at once through their jobber or directly from Mr. Frost,
the inventor and manufacturer, at his establishment, 35 Frankfort street,
this city. A very attractive window display, which seems to multiply the
sales amazingly, is furnished with every order. The Zobos are sold at a
price that leaves a satisfactory margin of profit to the dealer. We
would not be surprised to see Zobo bands, uniformed and equipped as
shown in the illustration herewith, in every country town and city
before long. For clubs and home amusement the Zobo cannot be duplicated.
It possesses a value peculiar to itself. A little "push" and the dealer
has a "big thing" when he handles the Zobo. It is worth looking up at
once.
MTR-1895-21-22 (Dec 21st 1895)
The Zobo in Concert.
A
T a concert and
cantata given by the Emmanuel Baptist Church in this city last week, the Zobo
was used. The World has the following to say in this connection: "In the
last chorus of the cantata a fine effect was produced by the use of brass Zobos.
With these instruments the young people produced a very good imitation of a
brass band accompaniment."
MTR-1895-21-23-06
W. H.
FROST,
of Zobo fame, is on a two weeks' business
trip to Chicago.
In a catalog of A.E. Benary, New York from 1895 the
zobo is mentioned already
[Catalog. NY, NY: A. E.
Benary; 1895], 286 p. Cloth binding. Successor to Henry Benary's Sons, Importer
and Manufacturer of Musical Instruments, Strings, 62 White Street, New York
1895. Retail catalog featuring: violins (including parts and cases), contra bass, trombone,
cymbals, cymbal bags, bicycle bugle, cavalry trumpets, xylophones, tubephones, door harps, metallophones, zobos,
zobo cornettos, etc
Music Trades
1984 Volume 132,Nummers 7-12 90 years ago....
Zobo Bands Are Forming All Over the Country It is likely that 100 Zobo bands
will do service during the coming presidential campaign. Mr. WH Frost, the
inventor and sole proprietor of this unique musical instrument, finds that it is
growing more popular every day. A considerable number of Zobo bands have been
organized in New York and Brooklyn and the surrounding towns. The Zobo Bicycle
Band of the Gormully and Jeffery Co. made a decided hit in the recent bicycle
parade. Nearly every newspaper in New York gave the band a complimentary notice.
The Evening Telegram said, "The white uniform Wheelman's band, the first on
record by the way, of the Gormully & Jeffery Company received a great ovation as
thev swept up past headquarters to take their place in line.”m Zobo…
1895 The American Stationer volume 38, Ashtabula, Ohio asks for the address of the makers of the Zobo. Answer: W.F. Frost 858 Dearborn Street Chicago 1896 Januar 7th the Zobo patent was
registered: US 552612
WARREN HERBERT FROST, son of Edward J. and
Elizabeth, married Mattie Josephine Orcutt.
His second wife was Mae Etta Orcutt. Residence, Chicago, where his only child,
son by first wife, Herbert Earl, was born Nov.17, 1890, and died in
1893. (Frost genealogy in five families).
MTR-1896-22-1-11 (Jan 25th 1896):
MTR-1896-22-2-13 (Feb 1st 1896)
More Light on the Zobo Patent.
THE RESONANT DIAPHRAGM NOT SIMILAR TO THE PHONOGRAPH.
I
N a conversation
with W. H. Frost of Zobo fame, 35 Frankfort street, about the patent granted him
on the Zobo by the authorities at Washington, which appeared in last week's
issue, that gentleman was made to say that the delay in granting same was caused
chiefly by the similarity of the resonant diaphragm used in the Zobo with that
of the phonograph, etc. This would lead the reader to believe that there was a
similarity between the two diaphragms, whereas the fact is, the diaphragms are of
a directly opposite character, producing entirely different results, and
arranged in a very dissimilar manner. This is the point Mr. Frost had to make
with the Patent Office, as the invention was entirely new to them, and they
confused it with the phonograph, etc. But when they saw that the facts were as
stated above, he had no trouble in securing full claims. This patent is a great
victory for Mr. Frost, and it gives his products a "clear field." The Zobo brass
band instruments are destined to win a great vogue during the coming summer and
fall for campaign purposes. In fact, Zobo bands will be all the rage this year,
and dealers should look way ahead and place their orders early.
Hawaiian Gazette February 18th 1898
Hawaiian Glee Club
The evening will be considerably enlivened by the presence and
assistance of the club's new musical organisation of monster proportions,
called 'Professor von Bergersons Zobo Band. For one thing the boys made
a strong bid for American patronage. They promise some surprises during
the rendition of patriotic medley 'American Airs'; There will be again
given for the benefit of both the Hawaiians and foreigners "The
evolution of Hawaiian music", arranged by Coelho. This took the house by
storm last Saturday night and will be better still. There will be once
more the Kamehmeha tableau and the pahu, ipu hula anmd uliuli. The money
which it is hoped to make by this repition is very much needed by the
boys. Several of them must have clothing and there were some expenses
attached to the firts show which have not yet been entirely defrayed
MTR-1896-22-5-09 (Feb 22nd 1896)
W
H. FROST, of Zobo
fame, has removed from 35 Frankfort
street to 123 Liberty street. This move, into larger quarters, was rendered
necessary owing to the growth of business. The Zobo is having a phenomenal sale.
The output since the first of the year indicates that Mr. Frost will round up
the million mark before the year closes. This week he made a large shipment to
Joseph Wallis & Son, of London, Eng., one of the largest houses devoted to the
sale of musical instruments in that city.
MTR-1896-22-6-09
W. H.
FROST,
of Zobo fame, has issued a very handsomely
gotten up edition of the popular "Honeymoon March," arranged for the Zobo
quartette, by Percy Gaunt. It shows the possibilities of the Zobo in a musical
way. Mr. Frost will be pleased to send dealers a sample copy, post paid, on
receipt of a postal card.
MTR-1896-22-8-15 (March 14th 1896)
Looks Like a Zobo Year.
THE
Zobo and Zobo band instruments are becoming quite a "fad" with college glee
clubs and quartets. During the past two weeks W. H. Frost, the manufacturer, 123
Liberty street, has been in receipt of numerous inquiries from colleges, and has
shipped quite a number of orders. He is also equipping Zobo bands in all
sections of the country. It looks like a mighty big Zobo year, judging from the
steadily growing demand for these instruments. Mr. Frost anticipates a big sale
in England, as his London agents, Joseph Wallis & Son, are confident that the
Zobo will become as popular in Great Britain as in the United States.
MTR-1896-22-9-10
W. H. FROST,
inventor and manufacturer of the Zobo, expects to sell a million of these
instruments during 1896.
MTR-1896-22-12-08
(April 11th 1896)
Zobo Brass Band on Wheels.
POINTS FOR DEALERS HANDLING ZOBOS—HOW THEY CAN MAKE MONEY THE
COMING SUMMER AND FALL.
THE Zobo Brass Band instruments seem to have struck a popular
vein. In fact, the different styles are getting more popular every day. This is
evidenced by the degree of bustle prevalent at Zobo headquarters.In a talk recently with W. H. Frost, the manufacturer, 123
Liberty street, he said: " I have been behind in my orders for brass band
instruments for over a month, and it is the dull season in most lines. "I am advised by the director of the Oberlin College Glee Club
that the hit of their concert recently given was the Zobo band. They have put in
sixteen of these brass instruments, which fitted out the entire glee club. Then
I have also equipped quartets in the glee clubs of Yale, Harvard and Cornell. So
you see they are proving very successful in that field." Wide-awake dealers
handling the Zobo instruments should make it a point to encourage the formation
of bicycle brass bands. If properly pushed they would become "all the rage."
These instruments can be carried in one hand, easily played and slung over the
back when not in use. There is absolutely no such thing as a brass band on
wheels, and the novelty of the scheme proposed will commend it. Again, dealers
should make it a point to be on the lookout for campaign clubs. The Zobo is
destined to be indispensable during the campaign, and dealers can work up a big
trade by looking up the voters as well as the bike.
MTR-1896-22-15-13 (May 2nd 1896)
W. H. FROST, inventor and manufacturer of the Zobo, 123 Liberty
street, is meeting with a great demand for the Zobo from well-known stage
favorites. He recently received a flattering letter from Frank Daniels, of
the "Wizard of the Nile" Co., praising the Zobo generally, and ordering a
quartet set. May Irwin has been captivated by the Zobo, and it is winning its
way rapidly into favor among theatrical people. This instrument has also been used recently with much success in
choirs and church entertainments; and, in fact, it can be used in the orchestra
or in the home with signal effect. No wonder the Zobo is selling like the
proverbial "hot cakes." The dealers not selling this "money-maker" must be
behind the times. Once examined and tested a sale is always effected. Such a
specialty should be handled and pushed by every "live" dealer.
(May Irwin, Canadian vaudeville star, actress 1862-1938)
MTR-1896-22-18-17 (May 23rd 1896)
Zobos in Demand.
ACCORDING
to Mr. W. H. Frost, proprietor and manufacturer of the Zobo, the prevailing
bicycle craze is not a circumstance to the heavy demand for both Zobos and Zobo
Band instruments. It is simply a case of "hustle" at the factory, the supply
barely keeping pace with the demand.
The avenues of sale are both numerous and varied, and the many
dealers, one and all, adopt an "Oliver Twist" attitude and humbly ask for
"more." Mr. Frost states that a large bicycle manufactory has organized a very
successful Zobo band, under the able conductorship of Otto Langey, and that the
rehearsals now being held are highly successful. At a forthcoming bicycle
parade, for which preparations are now being made on an extensive scale, the
performers expect to make a great sensation.
Mr. Frost has fitted up an organization of twenty-five
performers, who will shortly appear in a large spectacular production at one of
the New York theatres. The members of the band are busy rehearsing a stirring
march from Sousa's latest success, "El Capitan," and other selections, and
expect to make a great hit on making their stage debut. A prominent Grammar
School has instituted a Zobo band, which is to perform at the school parade of
the cadets and other indoor receptions. The Rudolph Wurlitzer Co., of Cincinnati,
in sending a large order under date of May 16, write: "Just beginning to
get out circulars you sent us, and have already received quite a number of
orders for Zobos and Zobo instruments."
Mr. Frost says that the Zobo will be very much in evidence at
the forthcoming St. Louis Convention; several quartets have been equipped, and a
number of Zobo clubs will help to make things lively. According to the genial
Zobo proprietor, the forthcoming election will be won by the party using the
greatest number of Zobos. C. H. Ditson, of this city, has received a large order
for the brass instruments from Tacoma, Wash. A number of new style instruments
are shortly to be placed on the market, which promise to become highly popular.
A Zobo ad, found on the backside of the sheet music of President Cleveland's Second Term March in 1896
MTR 1896 22-20-10 : (June 6th 1896)
Look Out for the Bicycle Zobo Band.
AN interesting feature of the livening Telegram bicycle parade, which will take place on the Boulevard from Sixtyfifth to 108th street, this afternoon,
will be a Zobo band on wheels. They will form part of the exhibit of the Gormully & Jeffery Manufacturing Co., and will be seen in the manufacturers'
division of the parade. They will be suitably uniformed, and will make quite a showing. The repertoire of the band is large, and they will set the pace at the
parade with Sousa's "El Capitan" march. The bicycle band will be a splendid means of showing the possibilities of the Zobo to New Yorkers, and it will
undoubtedly result in a number of other bands being formed, not only on wheels, but for campaign purposes. The Zobo is certainly the biggest hit of the day. The
inventor and manufacturer, W. H. Frost, is in receipt of letters and orders from dealers in all sections of the country, stating that there is a regular run on
these instruments.
MTR-1896-22-21-03
Zobo Bicycle Band.
I
N the extended
notices of last Saturday's bicyle parade in this city, the local newspapers had
many complimentary words for the Zobo Band, which appeared in the manufacturers'
division. They made an imposing picture in their natty uniforms, and their
playing was not bad, considering the limited time they rehearsed for the parade.
In the near future we can look forward for several bicycle Zobo bands, not only
in this city, but Ihroughout the country.
MTR-1896-22-24-10 (July 4th 1896)
Zobo Slide Trombone.
W
E herewith present
a cut of the latest addition to the illustrious Zobo "family," which seems
destined to create a stir in Zobo circles. The instrument is an excellent rep)ica
of the ordinary trombone,
with slide tubing, bent, as regular instrument, having an
extension of ten inches. To quote Mr. W. H. Frost's own words, "it is a very
deceptive, but nevertheless, business-like looking instrument, producing a very
fine tone, especially adapted to a baritone voice." The instrument retails at
$4, costing dealers the same as a Zobo brass horn. Mr. Frost states that "Zobo
business is improving, and, in view of the bicycle and approaching campaign
excitement, he looks for a steady and increasing call for Zobo goods right up to
Xmas." In view of this, it would be well for dealers to order well ahead of
goods.
MTR-1896-23-1-15 (July 25th 1896)
Zobo News.
THE accompanying
illustration of a Wheelman's Zobo Brass Band,although possessing considerable
interest to Zobo dealers and the trade generally, is not an actual reproduction
of any special organization, inasmuch as the average Zobo band numbers
considerably more members than is shown in the illustration. It is nevertheless
of unique interest. According to the Philadelphia press one of the most
interesting features of the recent big bicycle parade at Philadelphia, held on
July 14 last, was the Zobo Band of the Century Wheelman's Club. The procession
consisted often thousand cyclists and an extract from the Philadelphia "Public
Ledger" of July 15, reads as follows: "Next followed the Century Wheelmen, who
introduced a novelty in the shape of a Zobo band, and really played excellent
music. This caused the Centurions to receive tumultuous applause all along the
line of parade." After the parade the members of the band gathered in front of
the club house and gave a half-hour open air concert, which was highly
appreciated by a large audience. The Century Club have undoubtedly, in a great
measure, the Zobo band to thank for the ease with which they carried off their
three prizes: "Novel Display," "Best General Appearance," "Largest Number of
Men," thus maintaining their reputation of being the crack club of Philadelphia.
A word of acknowledgment is due that well known orchestral leader of
Philadelphia, Professor Harvey Uhler, who is the leader and drum-major of the
band, for the success he has achieved in producing so excellent an organization.
Mr. W. H. Frost reports a good general business in Zobo instruments; he has
recently had a large number of enquiries from the New York and Philadelphia
bicycle clubs, Mr. Frost emphasizes the point that bicycles and politics will go
hand in hand very considerably this fall, and that no bicycle club or parade is
properly equipped without its "Zobo band." Joseph Wallace & Son of London have,
through C. Bruno & Son of New York, just ordered their fourth shipment of Zobo
instruments.
New York Times September 27th 1896
A 'Zobo band' of sixteen pieces has been organized by members of the
Bushwick Wheelmen
First prize at the Greater America Exposition Nov 1st 1899:
Cover catalog W.L Hatch, New York, 6 X 9 1/4"
36 p/p's including covers. different instruments pics with prices and the packet
of repair pcs. and a scan of the front and back covers. Inside the front cover
is a picture of the Park Ave. Paterson NJ Church Choir Zobo Band, also a pic of
school 54 NYC band. Pic of Onnalinda Zobo Band, Kansas City Shriners Band,
Wheelman's Zobo Band of Philadelphia and many other bands, also listings for
Zithers and mouth organs.
The Zobo-phone, also by Strauss MFG. Co, based on
the same Jan.7, 1896 patent, Number 552612. Words on the side are: 'Sing into
the Mouthpiece' and 'Mama won't you buy me a Zobo?' Stands 7 inches tall.
Zobo ad
Zobo's from unknown catalogue
Denver Public Library collection:
Zobo
trio Colorado
Colorado National Guard soldiers pose with trumpets in Leadville, Lake
County, Colorado, during a mining labor strike of the Western Federation of
Miners. A rack of rifles are against interior canvas tent walls. [1896 or 1897?]
MTR-1896-23-6-15
Hamilton S. Gordon.
W.H. FREELAND, of Hamilton S. • Gordon's
small goods department, spoke somewhat encouragingly of the general outlook for
fall trade, to the REVIEW on Wednesday last. Mr. Freeland stated that the "campaign"
trade was fairly prosperous, the demand for the "Gordon " mandolins and guitars
satisfactory, and the accordeon and zobo trade brisk.
MTR-1896-23-12-19 (Oct 10th 1896)
Zobo News.
"Zobo business is on the boom justnow," said Mr. W. H. Frost to the
REVIEW
on Tuesday last. "I have received more
orders the last three weeks than at any time in a similar period." During the
informal chat which followed Mr. Frost stated in substance: "The main difficulty
1 have, when making a deal, is to impress upon buyers that the zobo is a 'serious'
instrument and not to be treated in a spirit of burlesque as many seem to think.
The splendid work of the Century Wheelmen's Zobo Band of Philadelphia, and my
phonograph records of some of Sousa's marches, are good object lessons in this
respect.
"Campaign business is very promising," continued Mr. Frost; "if
dealers would only grasp the fact that it is necessary to keep a full set of
instruments in stock, so as to illustrate their possibilities and excellence of
workmanship; it is so difficult to sell from catalogue, a man laughs at the idea
and imagines you are offering him a tin-pan toy; but impress upon him that he
can purchase an entire outfit for $2 a man—practically the price of the hire of
an ordinary brass band for one evening, let him fully appreciate the tonal
possibilities of the instruments, and the sale is made." Mr. Frost stated that
the largest demand for zobos came from the West, but Eastern business was good.
The zobo brass instruments were used in the glee clubs of
Oberlin College, Ohio, Cornell, Yale, Harvard and Muhlenberg University,
Allentown, Pa. ; in many cases the colleges had a full band outfit of sixteen
pieces. Reverting again to campaign business Mr. Frost stated that the clubs
possessing zobo brass instruments invariably "take the cake." In most cases the
performers had good voices, so that good chorus work could be effected, with the
result that fun and good-fellowship invariably prevailed and "on an economical
basis," emphasized the narrator. We herewith present a half-tone cut
illustrating a fifteen piece zobo brass band organization; the instruments are
reproduced exactly as assorted, and the picture is a life-like representation of
one of these organizations on parade.
MTR-1896-23-16-21 (Nov 7th 1896)
Zobo News.
T
HE
zobo brass instruments were much in evidence in the Sound Money Parade of
Saturday last; the New York "Herald," however, made a mistake in referring to
these popular instruments as "kazoos," the latter instrument being today
completely eclipsed by its more successful rival. In response to inquiry, Mr. W.
H. Frost stated to THE REVIEW on Monday last that zobo business was very good,
in fact, he was not only unable to fill orders, but did not expect to catch up
on same until January, '97.
The zobo brass instruments are rapidly becoming popular among
musical circles; a prominent church choir of Tacoma, Wash., gave a most
successful concert on Oct. 9th, last, the program containing both popular and
classical selections, carefully rendered in a most "serious" manner. The Tacoma
"Ledger" devoted half a column in describing the event, and referred to
the performance as a most ambitious and successful affair. Prominent among the
numbers was a zobo duet, "See the Pale Moon," by Donizetti, which called forth
rapturous applause. A very handsome presentation plate, size 17^3 x 14, printed
on enamel paper, has recently been published for presentation purposes by Mr. W.
H. Frost, and can be had gratis on application. The plate consists of six
half-tone portrait groups of zobo combinations and prominent organizations, and,
in addition, a handsome portrait of America's favorite comedienne, May Irwin—
the whole form ing an admirable advertisement most artistically produced. A new
zobo instruction book, specially prepared by Otto Langey, together with some new
and original musical selections, have just been published, further particulars
of which will appear in a later issue.
MTR-1896-23-19-21 (Nov 28th 1896)
New Zobo Instructor.
T
HE name of Otto
Langey on a musical instrument instruction book is sufficient guarantee that the
work has been done judiciously and well. Mr. Langey has recently completed a
zobo band instrument instructor which will undoubtedly not only prove of vast
assistance to zobo performers, but help to still further boom these very popular
instruments. The book consists of thirty-six pages of matter, carefully printed
and neatly produced. It is remarkably comprehensive and, by reason of its
lucidity, fully maintains Mr. Langey's high reputation for this class of work.
Full directions are given as to articulation and tongueing; the
matter of rhythm is dealt with at considerable length with illustrative
rhythmical exercises; there are individual exercises; exercises for mixed voices
for four parts with piano accompaniment, also arrangements of popular melodies
for both male and mixed zobo bands. There is a good deal of material in the
instructor which will prove of value to those who are but little versed in the
rudiments of music, and we predict a heavy demand for this very admirable little
work. W. H. Frost is also publishing a series of compositions for zobo bands,
arranged for male voices by Otto Langey. No. I. is a catchy march, entitled "The Scorcher,"
written by Mr. Langey himself; No. II. contains an excellent arrangement of
patriotic airs. The instructor and music each sell for twenty-five cents.
MTR 1896-23-20-16:
THE ZOBO "TAKES THE CAKE."
Among the special lines handled by Joseph Wallis & Son, Euston
Road, perhaps the most successful is that effective and inexpensive American
instrument entitled the "zobo." They are placing it with great success
among bicycle clubs and schools, and its sale is steadily increasing, not only
with the foregoing, but with the public at large. It seems to have caught the popular fancy
and dealers in the Provinces are selling them like the proverbial "hot cakes."
[The zobo is manufactured by W. H. Frost, of this city.EDITOR.
]
MTR-1896-23-22-19
Zobo News.
THE IMPROVED VIBRATOR A BIG SUCCESS
CONSIDERABLE DEMAND FOR THE ZOBO BRASS INSTRUMENT INSTRUCTOR.
W
H. FROST
is a zobo enthusiast; , naturally, says the cynical reader - "he makes 'em."
We repeat, and emphasize the statement - W. H. Frost is a zobo enthusiast,
working with the tenacity of a violin maker, in the improvement of his
instrument, ever ready to discuss its merits and possibilities, and
having unlimited faith in the ultimate acceptance - by the trade and
public - of the zobo as a
musical instrument. Mr. Frost has amply demonstrated that the zobo
is not a toy, but he, nevertheless, with all the sincerity and
earnestness of an enthusiast, continues to impress upon you this vital
point. Mr. Frost prognosticates, and we think with considerable
justification,that the zobo brass instruments have not only "come to
stay," but that the next few years will witness the evolution of a
"musical novelty" into an accepted and most appreciated "musical
instrument." An improvement of considerable moment has recently been
adopted in the zobo brass instruments which will undoubtedly tend to
still further enhance their popularity. We refer to the new improved
vibrator, which may be said to almost revolutionize the possibilities of
the instrument. To those unfamiliar with the construction of the zobo,
it might be of interest to state that the vibrator of the instrument is
attached to a wooden vibrator frame, which is inserted in the mouthpiece
of the instrument. Constant experimenting has resulted in a perfecting
of this vibrator, the effect being to clarify the tonal effects of the
instrument in a most marked degree. With this latest improvement the
zobo brass instruments are now completely under the control of the
performer, better expression can be obtained, pianissimo and forte are easier of
emphasis, and, to use Mr. Frost's own words, "the tonal quality of the
instrument is of so refined a nature that it becomes especially adapted
to the most refined quarters of a limited New York flat."
Bands and orchestras also benefit by this improvement, as selections can
be performed with greater accuracy and better effect. In referring to
the new vibrator, Chas. Russell, of the well-known musical vaudeville
team, the Russell Bros., writes: "The new vibrator is a big success and
the zobo cornet solo with piano accompaniment is the best feature of the
program." Mr. Frost states that in future all zobo brass instruments
will have an improved vibrator in addition to the regular one. He will
be pleased to forward a sample vibrator to any zobo performers or zobo
brass instrument agents.Otto Langey's Zobo Brass Instrument Instructor,
published by W. H. Frost & Co., 123 Liberty street, this city, is
meeting with splendid success and undoubtedly fills the bill in a most
admirable manner.
May Irwin made a big "hit" at the Columbia Theatre last week in
a song which she sings with the zobo band accompaniment. It is a great ad. for
the zobo.
MTR-1897-24-2-06 (Januar 9th 1897)
The " First Zobo Band of New York," a Harlem organization,
recently presented W. H. Frost, the well-known zobo manufacturer, with a
handsomely framed photographic group of its members. The picture is 15 x 18
inches in size, and has been accorded a prominent position in Mr. Frost's
private office, 123 Liberty Street, this city.
MTR-1897-24-2-17 (Januar 9th 1897)
The Zobo on Broadway.
W. H. Frost is naturally much pleased with the big reception
accorded to the Zobo Band, which is so prominent a feature of May Irwin's "
Courted into Court," now occupying the boards at the Bijou Theatre, this city.
The celebrated American comedienne has for some time past been a zobo enthusiast.
She had a zobo band at her summer place in the Thousand Islands, and was so
convinced of the admirable qualities of the zobo brass band instruments for
stage purposes that she has introduced them into her new f)iece, and throughout
the fall the company have been busy rehearsing and perfecting their zobo
selections with a view to make this special performance a marked feature of the
production. At Omaha, Kansas City, St. Louis, Chicago, and New York, the Zobo
Band finale at the close of the second act was vociferously applauded, resulting
in several curtain calls. All the members of the company participate in the zobo
finale, making thirteen performers. The instruments include cornets, alto
cornets, saxophones, trombones, bass horns, with the addition of cymbals and
bass drum, May Irwin acting as drum-major. The press give the new piece warm
approval, and it is doubtless in for an extended run.
MTR-1897-24-9-23
Popularity of the Zobo Band.
To popularize the Zobo by means of Zobo clubs, bands, orchestras
and similar organizations, was a happy thought on the part of Mr. W. H. Frost,
now frequently alluded to as "the Zobo man." By dint of indefatigable personal
effort, Mr. Frost has succeeded in scoring a distinct and lasting success for
his ingenious instruments. It is quite "the proper thing" now to be a member of
a Zobo band. The picture herewith represents the members of the First Zobo Band
of New York. The headquarters are in Harlem, where the members reside. It was
organized by Mr. C. W. Diehl, 443 East 123d street, who is now the director. Mr.
Diehl is active in matters of church music. The members are mostly members of
church choirs. Their Zobo repertoire includes Sousa's marches, all standard
music, and many favorite modern compositions. Tins band was organized over a
year ago. It has given several successful concerts and is classified as a
regular and permanent musical organization.
MTR-1897-24-11-15 Incorporated :
The Zobo Manufacturing Co., of NewYork, was incorporated on
Wednesday last, to manufacture and deal in musical instruments and novelties;
capital, $10,000. Directors— Warren H. Frost, Mae Etta Frost, Louis N. Crokaw, and Emma R.
Crokaw, all of New York city.
MTR-1897-24-12-19 (March 20th 1897)
The Zobo and the Bicycle Season.
Now that the bicycle season of 1897 is fairly under way, the
demand for Mr. W. H. Frost's unique instruments, the zobos, big and little, has
received renewed impetus. Clubs all over the country are sending in their orders, with
requests for suggestions as to the drilling of band members and the like. The
present year is likely to be a red-letter one in the history of the zobo. After
five rehearsals, zobo brass bands are, if properly instructed, ready for any
mancxuvre on foot, wheel, or horseback. Many wide-awake dealers who are located
near bicycle club quarters have been doing a lively business in zobos of late,
and from the size and frequency of their orders, they anticipate a big trade
during the next three months.
MTR-1897-24-13-19 (March 27th 1897)
The Zobo Manufacturing Co.
The Zobo Mfg. Co., the incorporation of which was recently
announced in The Review, has been organized with W. H. Frost, president; E. R.
Crakow, vice-president, and L. N. Crakow, secretary-treasurer. This concern is
amply equipped not only to carry on the business so well developed by Mr. Frost,
but to broaden its scope and make better known the zobo, which is now rapidly
becoming one of the stock musical instruments. Of the popularity of the zobo
band instruments it is almost unnecessary to speak. They are scoring one success
after another; probably the most pronounced is that made in "Courted into Court"
at the Bijou Theatre, this city, where May Irvvin has appeared for over a
hundred nights consecutively as drum-major of a very excellent zobo band.
In church, as well as theatrical circles, the zobo has become an
established favorite. The New York Zobo Band, which was organized over a year
ago, and now a well established musical organization of nineteen members, has
recently given many concerts in church and society circles. The repertory is
extensive, including many popular instrumental pieces. It may be interesting to
learn that through the receipts of some concerts given by this organization two
churches in this city were enabled to keep open doors during the past year.
Enough money was donated by the band to the congregations to pay off the
interest on the mortgages. It would be a good point for members of churches who
are breaking their heads trying to pay their ministers' salaries to engage or
organize a zobo band. The New York Zobo Band referred to has demonstrated
effectively how salaries can be paid and the church mortgage debt decreased. Mr.
Louis N. Crakow, secretary of the company, will be prominently identified with
the business hereafter, as Mr. Frost, always a busy man, is interested in
several enterprises. Mr. Crakow is a genial and accomplished gentleman, and is
destined to advance the interests of his house.
MTR-1897-24-14-29 (April 3rd 1897)
The Zobo in Demand.
" The only complaint we can make about business," said Mr. L. N.
Crakow, of the Zobo Manufacturing Co., 123 Liberty street, when seen by The
Review on Wednesday last, "is unusual slowness in collections. Orders for zobos
are steadily coming in; last week we shipped six cases of zobos to Australia,
where they are becoming decidedly popular. So far this week orders amounting in
value to over $500 have been received." This certainly looks like business.
Brooklyn Daily
Eagle Star
24 april 1897
Next to follow was
the Zobo band , under the direction of V. E. Brodie. This has to be heard to be appreciated.
Mr. Brodie as Paderewskl, on a f i f t y cent piano, being very
good.
MTR-1897-24-15-02 ad
BUY GOODS THAT PEOPLE WANT AND CAN AFFORD TO BUY
MORE MONEY IN THE ZOBO BRASS INSTRUMENTS
Than in any other musical instrument ever offered. Rapidly
becoming popular with musical people as well as with the general public.
Write for particulars regarding
popular hits of Zobo Bands. (met plaatje van fiets zobo band Inmiddels
heet het bedrijf dus Zobo)
THE ZOBO Manufacturing Co, Sole Mfrs.
123 Liberty Street, New York.
MTR-1897-24-17-04 (April 24th 1897)
MTR contributes to the succes, writing:
Here is another one under date of April 2. The Zobo
Manufacturing Co. write: "We have appreciated the many benefits we have received through our advertisement in your journal and
consider the enormous amount of business we have gotten through you."
At the unveiling of the Washington monument in Philadelphia, 15.000
cyclers altogether
the Zobo band of the
Century Wheelmen, with the electric light display, showed up again
MTR-1897-25-3-06 adress book Zobo MFG Co Liberty street City (small
goods trade) en
STRAUSS
MUSIC CO., 267 Wabash Ave., Chicago, 111 (Music Publishers)
MTR-1897-25-8-06 idem
MTR-1897-25-16-06 idem
The New York Clipper 4 dec 1897-1899
J. W. ROBB'S CASINO OPERATIC BURLESQUERS are introducing a Zobo band of twelve
fine brass instruments with marked success.
Hamilton S. Gordon catalogue
Hamilton S. Gordon catalogue, New
York, 1897-1898 shows the zobo, along with the vocophone.
Niagara Falls Gazette August 18th 1898
THE ZOBO BAND.
It Has a New Lot of Instruments and Is Able to Produce
All Kinds of Music.
Tonight the Zobo band will accompany the search-light
excursion on the Gorge Road. It was to have accompanied the excursion
last night but, through some misunderstanding the members of the band
did not. assemble and the excursion went without them. The Zobo band is
now a great institution. It no longer has any real connection with the
Royal Arcanum, although the majority of the members belong to the order.
The connection with the order, was severed in order that several
outsiders whose musical ability particularly struck Leader Jenny, could
be taken into the ranks. The end has fully justified the action and the
result is a great and growing band with unlimited possibilities. The
Zobo band accompanies the search-light excursions for two reasons, viz:
for the pleasure derived and for the cash remuneration. The cash is
needed to pay for the new instruments which the band now possesses.
There is a story connected with the purchase of the new instruments, the
details of which if known, might prove very interesting. It will be
remembered that on the 24th of'May last the Zobo band went to Niagara
Falls. Ont. to aid the Canadians in celebrating the Queen's birthday.
Crowds of People saw the band depart for the other side of the river,
but only a very few saw them return. The few who did happen to be
prowling around late enough to see the return of the musicians would not
recognize them as such, for they had no instruments with them and they
looked for all the world like common, ordinary house painters in their
uniforms of duck which were white when they went across the river in the
morning. Where their instruments went seems to be a mystery. Only one or
two of them were saved. Judge Charles H. Piper carried the bass horn,
and after he had walked about the track with the band 42 times playing
the same tune all the time he grow tired and climbed into a wagon for a
rest. He took his horn with him. While he was in the wagon the rest of
the members of the band went down to the town and he could not find them
and he came home early and brought his instrument with him. The trombone
also came back but it was in eight pieces and now adorns the walls of
the quarters of the Arcanum as a memento of the celebration of the
Oueen's birthday. There was only one thing to do and that was to
purchase new instruments. Experience taught the members a lesson and now
they have brass horns, but they are not paid for and these search-light
excursions come in very handy as another payment is due shortly. The new
instruments are capable of producing the same unearthly noise as the old
paper instruments were and tonight the mysterious spirits of the gorge
whos nocturnal revels have been undisturbed for ages, will be rudely
intruded upon.
PRINTERS' INK May 31, 1899
(A Journal for Advertisers, New York)
ADVERTISING THE " ZOBO."
Readers of the Saturday Evening Post, Success, the Christian Herald, the
Voice and similar publications, are doubtless familiar with the little
twenty-two-line ad which describes and contains a cut of the Zobo, an
article which is fittingly named by its inventor a " toy musical
instrument." Assigned to the task of finding out something about the "Zobo"
advertising, I went to the fifth floor of 369 Broadway, and there saw
Mr. L. N. Crakow,
the owner of the business. He received me graciously, and the following
conversation ensued:
" How long has the Zobo been on the market ?"
"Since 1896. It was patented in that year, and was first advertised for
sale in Chicago."
" In what class of papers ?"
" Those generally carrying mail order advertising, like Comfort,
Boyce's Weeklies, etc."
"Did they pay you?"
"Comfort paid us all right. I can't say as much for the others.
We started practically without capital, but knowing we had a good thing
we determined to build up a business."
"When did you come to New York"?
"Eighteen months ago."
"What mediums do you now use, Mr. Crakow?"
"The Christian Herald, the Christian Endeaver World, Success, the
Voice, Saturday Evening Post of Philadelphia and the tri-weekly editions of the New York
World.
"" DO you get good returns from these papers?
"" Yes, better than we did with the other mediums I named. We average between 400 and 500 cash letters daily."
" What do Zobos sell for?"
" From ten cents up to $4. Generally a ten-cent one marks the first
sale, but with each cheap instrument
is inclosed an illustrated catalogue of
our better-class goods. This shows
people the possibilities of the Zobo
and explains that it is not merely a toy
but a first-class musical instrument."
" Do you have second applications,
then ?"
" Yes, and always for a higher
priced Zobo. Every letter that comes
here inclosing cash means that the
writer's name goes on our books at
once for future reference. If he writes
for a second or third Zobo the amount
is fully credited to the paper which
first introduced him."
" How do you trace results ?"
" By means of a keyed address
number. We used to try 'departments,' but I don't like that system.
Our letter carriers are informed of
what we are doing, and whether
a letter is addressed to us at
36l, 363, 365. 367, 369 or any
other number on the block it
is always delivered here. No
matter what number is given
in the ad it is one that belongs
to this block, so the average
New Yorker who comes personally to find us has no difficulty whatever-
"You keep the letters for selling again I suppose"?
"No, we don't, and won't sell them Each letter is marked as soon as it arrives with the
name of the paper corresponding to
the key number, and the amount inclosed is written in blue pencil. We
would not give our business away by
selling such letters."
" Is yours altogether a mail order
business ?"
" By no means. Why, at the present time over 40,000 retail stores in
the United States are selling Zobos;
music stores, toy and notion stores
and the big department stores. In the
latter we do some good advertising."
" In what way ?"
" By demonstrations. We get the
best lady demonstrators we can procure,
and, besides a regular weekly salary, we
pay them a commission on their sales.
This makes them anxious to sell, and
consequently they not only show the
goods but instruct intending purchasers in the method of playing."
" Why do you use religious and semi-religious mediums, Mr. Crakow?"
" We want to reach people in bulk - choirs, singing classes and so on.
We also advertise in the music trade journals for the same reason."
" Might I ask what your present appropriation is ?"
" I would rather not say, Mr. Printers' Ink, but although we have built
up such a vast business, we are not spending very much money. Many lines
of business want our goods in large quantities. They are known to be
most acceptable gifts .for children,
and therefore many firms give them away as premiums for purchasers. The
Larkin Soap people of Buffalo offer Zobos for so many soap wrappers, for
instance."
I thanked Mr. Crakow for his in-
formation and withdrew.
Ad
in Printers Ink, May 31 1899
Fielding Star, Kiwitea and Oroua New Zealand Januar 24th 1899 Zobo
Band
The State of Trade in Small Harps, Mouth Organs, Jewsharps, "
Bones" and Accordions.
The old boy who always thinks of things that used to happen when
he was young and never happen now was in the mood for fault finding. He had been
heard on the degeneration of the mince pie and the old games. The playing of a
hand organ turned his thoughts in the direction of music. "What has become of
the accordions, concertinas, harmonicas, jewsharps and bones? Once upon a time
these were among the prized possessions of a boy, and there were few boys who
did not carry a mouth organ or a jewsharp or Jboth in the same pocket with
marbles, jackknife, pieces of string and other things that only boys know how to
appreciate. The comb with a piece of paper over the flat surface was also a
favorite musical instrument in those days, but the boy of the present time knows
no more about it than he does of the mouth organ, bones or concertina."......
The zobo, which is made in many styles and shapes, has taken the
place of the comb as a musical instrument, and children make just as much noise
and as good music on this little instrument as their fathers did on the comb,
says the Tribune.
MTR-1901-32-19-35 (May 11th 1901)
Emil Rink Favorably Impressed
With the United States and our People—Me Chats with the Review A Big Field Abroad for
American Specialties.
Emil Rink, London agent for the National Musical String Co., the
Phonoharp Co., Ch. & J. Ullmann & Co., of Paris, and others, who arrived in New
York from England four weeks ago in quest of American specialties for the
British market, left again on Thursday for Europe. He was a passenger on the "Fuerst
Bismarck." Mr. Rink, who is famous in Great Britain as an enterprising merchant,
made his headquarters at the office of the Phonoharp Co. when in New York. The
Review, during its round of calls, met Air. Rink at 415 Broadway, and asked him
if he cared to state briefly his views concerning America, also his success in a
business way.........
The Review inquired from Mr. Rink if any important trade
contracts had been consummated during his stay. "Yes," was the reply, "I have
arranged with the Strauss Manufacturing Co., of Jersey City, to take the zobo
agency for England. Contracts have been made with Maulbetch & Whittemore, of
Newark, N. J., for leather instrument and other cases for England. Business
plans have also been perfected in other directions, but there is no necessity to
go into details just now. Of one thing I feel assured; there is a big future for
American goods, such as I am interested in, in England. My present mission has
been entirely successful."
1901 Zobo Ad with a picture of the Paterson NY Church
Choir Zobo Band
The Age Saturday May 19th 1900
The relief of Mafeking
CASTLEMAINE. At midnight, when news of the relief of Mafeking as
reported from Delagoa Bay was received bells were rung all over the
place. To-day school children and others assembled in the town hall sung
patriotic songs, and listened to patriotic addresses by the mayor,
Messrs. E. D. Williams and H. S. Lawson, M’s, L.A. and
Lieutenant-Colonel McCay. The children afterwards marched through the
streets to the market buildings, where they were entertained by the
mayor. To-night the 4th Battalion, under Lieutenant-Colonel McCay,
turned out, and headed by their band, paraded the streets. The cadets
were led by the Zobo band. They went to the town hall, where patriotic
speeches were made. At the invitation of Lieutenant-Colonel McCay the
officers and a number of leading citizens were banqueted at the
Castlemaine Hotel.
May 20th 1901 Pan-American Exposition , Buffalo NY
CASTLEMAINE. At midnight, when news of the relief of Mafeking as
reported from Delagoa Bay was received bells were rung all over the
place. To-day school children and others assembled in the town hall sung
patriotic songs, and listened to patriotic addresses by the mayor,
Messrs. E. D. Williams and H. S. Lawson, M’s, L.A. and
Lieutenant-Colonel McCay. The children afterwards marched through the
streets to the market buildings, where they were entertained by the
mayor. To-night the 4th Battalion, under Lieutenant-Colonel McCay,
turned out, and headed by their band, paraded the streets. The cadets
were led by the Zobo band. They went to the town hall, where patriotic
speeches were made. At the invitation of Lieutenant-Colonel McCay the
officers and a number of leading citizens were banqueted at the
Castlemaine Hotel.
(www.trainweb.org/wnyrhs/panam1901.htm)
11.00 am The Midway parade along the same route, a glorious panorama of colors and surprises. By now, the
crowds had begun to spill out into the streets, and it took the police
about ten minutes to reform the line along the curb. "It led off with
Frederick T. Cummins, the grand marshall on a horse, and wound up with a
sod house on wheels, and in between there were all the contrasts and
varieties that the peoples and beasts of strange lands could possibly
provide." There were native Americans in gaily colored garments,
toreadors, Mexican ladies, rancheros, the miniature railway and Chiquita
floats, gypsies, elephants, zebras, a caged lion, stag hunters, the
Royal Bavarian Band, dragoon guards, cross-bowmen, peasants, singers and
dancers, market people, the Cleopatra float, "mounted on the throne of
an immense float drawn by a score of slaves who were dressed in the
picturesque fashion of the east." Japanese Geisha girls, swordsman and
wrestlers, Next came the Eskimo float, the men an women dressed in furs,
Bringing up the rear were camels and donkeys accompanied by Turks,
Bedouins, Nubians, Egyptians, and Moors. "After them came a number of
wagons bearing exhibits from different concessions, popcorn, peanuts,
drinks, etc., the Midway Boys Zobo band and other lesser features, all
extending the line.
(www.trainweb.org/wnyrhs/panam1901.htm)
Cass City Chronicle Michigan ,
June
28th 1901
The Zobo band made its first appearance on Main street
Monday evening.
Ashland Press: Januar15th 1902,
Ashland Ohio:
The Zobo band was entertained by Mr. and
Mrs. Tilden Wise at the home of Mrs. Wise's father, F.E. Hartsel, on
Friday evening of last week.
MTR-1902-34-8-39 (Februar 22th 1902)
THE COUNTRY'S CRAZE!
Since opening their factory, warerooms and offices at 142-146
West Fourteenth street, New York City, the Strauss Manufacturing Co. have
experienced a very prosperous time. Business grows with them week by week, and
it has now reached such proportions, that they employ no less than sixty-four
persons, who devote their time to the manufacture of Zobo instruments. From all
over the country, from every little village, comes orders for this popular
instrument, that all can play without learning, it is truly a country's craze.
In addition to the "Zobo," the "Strauss Manufacturing Co.'' carry a number of
well-known instruments, such as the "Strauss Music King" violins, guitars,
mandolins and banjos, the "Perfection" Music Boxes, and accordions, organs,
zithers, xylophones, clariophones and harmonicas, all goods in which can be
found the finest materials and workmanship. But with this firm the "Zobo" rules.
One can scarcely realize the demand there is for this instrument, and we can
accurately and truthfully say that the dealer, who is fortunate enough, to be
the first in a town or village to introduce this instrument can make a good many
hundreds of dollars in a month or so. They sell on sight, and if one person has
one, all the others want it. So dealers who are enterprising and ambitious,
would do well to send to the Strauss Manufacturing Co., 142-146 West Fourteenth
street, New York, for further particulars.
138-146 West 14th
Street, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues in Manhattan, New York City, is a loft
building constructed c.1899 in Roman Revival style.
(Source: AIA Guide
to NYC (4th ed). )It is the location of the Manhattan campus of the
Pratt Institute, an art school based in Brooklyn, which used the address 144 West 14th Street.
Rochester Zobo Band
Rudolph Wurlitzer catalog 1901:
based on the same 1896 Jan 7th patent
MTR-1902-34-25-27 (June 21st 1902)
STRAUSS MFG. CO.'S NOVELTIES.
The Strauss Manufacturing Co., of 142 West Fourteenth street,
are always adding to their large catalogue of musical novelties. The latest
additions are a set of specially finely finished zoboes and horns, to retail at
25 cents and 50 cents, a cornet at 75 cents and a trombone at $1.00. The
workmanship is really wonderful, and we all know the playing qualities of these
instruments. Another new instrument that is having an enormous sale is a
combined zobo and harmonica; this retails at 50 cents. It is quite 'the most
ingenious toy we have ever seen in this line. Dealers who carry games, etc., as
well as musical merchandise," can obtain some firstclass ping-pong, or rather
table tennis, sets from the Strauss Manufacturing Co., the best workmanship at
the cheapest price. They also carry a fine line of decorated bats for table
tennis. It is always a pleasure to call at the offices of this firm; to be
courteously received by Mr. Strauss without the formality of being kept waiting,
is something to make a day brighter.
Strauss ad's Christian Herald 1903, unknown, 1902
Church band of Paterson, ad 1902
'01. '02(Jan) S. (Hints ed. of novel and successful drills.)
Hatch, Adelaide Wescott. Zobo patriotic drill.
pap., 15 c.
Adams High School , Adams, 24 June 1902 Zobo band performing
the Patriotic Drill as part of Redhood programm
C. Bruno & Son
C. Bruno & Son
from New York has a Harmonophone with build-in Zobo in their fall
supplement to the 1902 main catalog. They also had Zobos in their 1903-1904
catalog.
1902
ad
The 1902 Sears catalogue advertised a Zobo tutor by Otto Langey
Sears,Roebuck & Co catalog 1902 (reprint 1969)
14 June 1902 The colored American Washington D.C.
Novel Zobo Band
C.Bruno & Son catalogue 1903 -1904
source:
American Musical Instruments in the Metropolitan Museum of Art ,
Laurence Libin 1985
The 1903 Catalogue of the Crosby Brown collection of musical
instruments of all nations from the New York Metropolitan Museum of Art
mentions the Zobo in the class of Vibating membrane instruments:
2585. ZOBO HORN. A short conical tube of brass, having
at the end a vibrating membrane. By humming into the mouth-
piece an effect is produced similar to that of the Onion Flute. U.
S. A. Late 19th Century.
Length, 4 1/2 inches.
2586. ZOBO FLUTE. A small cylinder of wood pierced
with one hole and having at one end a vibrating membrane. The
instrument is played like the Onion Flute. U. S. A. Late 19th
Century.
Length. 5 inches.
1702. ONION FLUTE or Flute Eunuque. A conical tube
of dark wood pierced with one hole, having at one end a covering
of membrane over which is placed a perforated bulb. The instru-
ment is played by humming into the hole at the side of the tube.
France. 18th Century.
Length. 2 feet 9 inches.
2641. MIRLITON. Cylindrical tube of reed, closed at both
ends by a thin membrane; on either side of the tube a large hole :
by humming into one of which the membranes arc set in motion
and a curious nasal tone produced, as in the Onion Flute. France.
19th Century.
Length. 10 1/4 inches.
Zobo Bassonette, 6" long, bell diameter 3.5"
1903
Zobo Megaphone ad
April 7th 1903 3 Worchester Daily Telegram of Worchester MA
Police and Zobo Band.
Young Ladies in Dooley's Circus to Take These Parts.
The young ladies who are to assist the members of the Catholic young
men's lyceum in Dooley's circus, April 24, in Mechanics Hall, met in the rooms
of the society last night. It was voted to have another meeting next Tuesday
night, April 14, and after the deliberations to spend the remainder of the time
until midnight in dancing. The general committee of the society reported that Reidl's singing orchestra had
been engaged for the circus dance music.
It was agreed to start the grand march off with a platoon of police, followed
with a Zobo band of 10 pieces. Some of the members of the society have decided
to imitate the cops and others will become temporary musicians. The leaders of
the grand march will follow the band. It is the desire of the committee to have
every person in the march in a comical dress, and it is sincerely hoped that
none will go to the extreme.
April 1903 Poughkeepsie Eagle News
The Y.M.C.A. gave a great and only Two Paw circus at the gymnasium in the Ý'
building. The eminent ring master was William H. Pasquiy, the super elegent Zobo
band was led by William H. Sweet.
MTR-1903-36-23-33 (June 6th 1903)
The Review was glad to welcome John H. Buckbee, at one time a
well-known manufacturer of banjos and drums, in New York City, to Boston this
week. It is a pleasure to see "Johnny," as all his many friends call him, on the
road again. He is now traveling for the Strauss Manufacturing Co., of Nos. 142
and 146 West Fourteenth street, New York, his specialty being the "Zobo"
and other novelties manufactured and handled by his house. "Johnny" is on his
way eastward from Chicago, where he was royally received by the trade. In fact
he is being warmly welcomed everywhere. He still retains the same geniality of
temperament which characterized him when he represented his own line on the road.
The San Francisco Call
15 november 1903 in an ad Hall's Zobo's for 19c till $3 a piece
Bonner County Daily Bee.com
mentions a Zobo Band in Sandpoit,
North Idaho:
Zibbie and Robert Coons were married in 1903 when he was station
agent for the Northern Pacific in Sandpoint. Zibbie had lived in town
and worked at various jobs before she met Robert. She was a member of a
musical group called the “Zobo Band.”
Metlakatla
The Metlakatla brass band was the pride of the Pacific Northwest
coast from about the mid 1870s to 1887. Generally thought to be the first brass
band of native musicians, the band was historically upstaged by the St. Mary’s
Mission band which came into existence about 1866-67. One of the first
appearances of the Metlakatla band came with the 1876 visit of Governor-General
and Lady Dufferin. A Toronto newspaper writer described the group of bandsmen as
“gorgeous in cast-off uniforms of United States soldiers, purchased at a sale of
condemned military clothing recently held in Alaska.” William Duncan, the
controversial founder of the Christian Tsimshian community of Metlakatla, is
believed to have brought band instruments with him upon his return from England
in February 1871. A Prussian bandmaster named Ephor has been credited with
giving music lessons to either Duncan and/or his pupils. After the bandmaster
had fulfilled his obligations a student took over. This student, Roderick Vokel,
was later hired by the enthusiastic Kincolith villagers to teach some of their
members how to play. Another band was also formed at about the same time at Port
Simpson. The Metlakatla band was brought out for all important visitors. When Duncan seceded in 1887 from the Church
Missionary Society, moving over 800 followers on August 7 to Annette Island,
Alaska, Bishop William Ridley somehow managed to keep the band functioning.
Music continued to play an important role in the lives of the Tsimshians at New
Metlakatla, for by the early 1900s other musical associations were formed
including “a reed band, a string band, an orchestra, a ladies’ orchestra, and a
girls’ zobo band.”
(The apostle of Alaska: the story of William Duncan, of Metlakahtla,
1909)
Metlakatla girls' Zobo Band
Sir Henry S. Wellcome Collection, nara Pacific
Alaska Region, Anchorage, Alaska (Collection wme)
Yale University class of 1896 had a Zobo band
The Cornell Alumni News (Cornell University, Ithaka NY) from June
27th 1906 mentions the 1903 class Zobo band.
The class of 1903 made its headquarters downtown, and
was chiefly notable for its "Zobo" band, uniformed in natty striped
suits which bore a suspicious resemblance to pajamas. Thus attired, the
band marched about the Campus and the city, discoursing sweet music on
various occasions and in sundry places.
They also showed up as a surprise at the annual Senior
Week Concert. The annual Senior week concert of the Musical clubs
contained some unusual and novel features, which made it one of the most
enjoyable concerts of the season. Two of the hits of the evening
were not on the program, and were unexpected alike to the audience and
the members of the clubs. The first was the "Zobo" band, under the
leadership of C. B. Kugler, '03, prominent in its personnel being Robert
Ryan, '03, and Edward Burns, '03, both former members of the Glee club.
The members of the band appeared on the stage duing the entr'acte
dressed in unique costumes somewhat resembling pajamas. They had
practiced assiduously during the day on the "Cavaleria Rusticana," and
this the rendered with great eclat, following it with a march
encore in which sundry evolutions of a military order were gone through.
Zobo ad 1904
Zobo ad cover 1904
(source Ebay 2015)
The Amateur
entertainer. New York 1904 The most complete catalogue in the world,
devoted exclusively to every branch of amusement, included in which are
sample programmes, descriptions and illustrations of every popular style
of entertainment.
The Amateur entertainer: The most complete catalogue in the world, ...: Volume 1
Crest Trading Company, New York - 1904 -
Zobo Brass Band Instruments
The only entirely new, original and successful Musical Instruments that
Everybody can play on sight without being taught. A positive success! An
entertainment provider! Just the thing for novelty musical acts! Great for
finale of Minstrel First Part! List of Correct Instruments for the Voice. Though
all Zobo Instruments may be played by any voice, for BEST results we advise the
following: for Soprano, 1st Tenor or Falsetto Alto, 2d Tenor or the average
voice Zobo Alto Cornet, 1st Bass or Heavy Alto Saxaphone... When better results
are desired the following selections will prove very satisfactory : 4 Sopranos
Cornet 8 Altos Saxaphone 8 Tenors Alto Cornet 2 Baritones Slide Trombone 3
Basses Bass Horn A Small Brass Drum is a desirable addition. For Bicycle Band of
IS Pieces. 6 1st Tenors or Falsettos Cornet 4 2d Tenors Alto Cornet 2 ……Boys,
girls, grown persons of every age and both sexes, bands, glee clubs, picnics,
excursions private theatricals, musicales, minstrel shows, professional
performances, church fairs, festivals, entertainments and outings.
What does a Zobo look like? Just like the ordinary brass instrument used by a
band and shaped like these too.
How is it played? By humming a tune into it. Avoid BLOWING. Let the singing
voice go clearly into the mouthpiece, keeping the lips somewhat apart.
Do they sound like regular brass instruments? Of course they do, that’s why they
are a success.
How are these effects produced? By the kind of Zobo used and the kind of voice
that hums into it. A soprano with a Zobo cornet gives a clear,
musical-instrument note. A bass voice with a Zobo bass horngives a deep, rich
musical instrumen effect.
Must one be a singer? No anyone can play a Zobo.
Any musical education required? .....
Zobo bands orchestras and glee clubs are forming all over the country. Think of
it! All you have to do is get together any desired number who can hum a tune,
give them Zobo….
The Amateur entertainer. The most complete catalogue in the world, devoted exclusively to every branch of amusement, included in which are sample programmes, descriptions and illustrations of every popular style
of entertainment. 1904.
A Zobo Button, with proper care, should last at least 8 months. We furnish an extra Vibrating Button with each instrument, and should you
at any time need new ones you can obtain them at the rate of 3 buttons for 6 cents
Evening Post New Zealand August 1905
British Evening at Victoria Hall,
Wellington had a Zobo band
The
Review of Reviews for Australasia Dec. 1905 ad.
Dec 1905
Turner’s Public Spirit March 20th 1909 Ayer Mass.
"Frnntlc" with Langhler.
The Methodist ladies held a "Funny social" In their vestry
Thursday evening Admission was a nickel and for an hour every
one who laughed was fined a penny. Tbe program for the fun Included
a pie walk, zobo solo, zobo band, artistic drawing and pop corn
match. Then followed an entertainment which included:
Piano solo, Mildred Andrew, Sadie Kidder and Miss Doloff;
whistling solo. Hazel Perry; readings. Miss Pettingill of Harvard,
.Mrs. Nellie Moore and Clare Perry. Home-made candy Was so r ld
by Sadie Kidder and Florence Wat.son. Refreshments were served. The
evening was in charge of Mrs. G. P. Corner, Mrs. P. R. Andrew and
Mrs. J. W.Wentworth.
January 20 1906 Wanganui Chronicle (N.Z.)
August 10, 1906
Cumberland Evening Times
JR. O. U. A. M. REUNION. A Big Parade In Which Seven Bands Will Figure.
The Jr. O. U. A. M. (Junior Order of United American
Mechanics) are making ar vaiigeinonta for, a m'fttumoth parade the
occasion of their reunion in this city, August 18th. The parade will be under
the direct charge of Chief Martha) f. Brooke Whiting and will form on Park
street and will move promptly at 0:10 a. m. over the following route: Park to
He- jocca, to Baltimore, to North. Me«htn c, to Valley, to Columbia, to
Bedford, o 'Decamp, -to Gleiuv'to 'Front, to Baltimore, to North Cctittr* and
take cars for'Narrows Parlt, where « dinner will be ready. '"' The following
bands : bate town en SQ : McCauley's Concert Band, South Cumberland Band, of
this city: Jr. O. U. A. M.Band of Frostburg; City band of Berkeley Springs, W.
Va.; Jr. O. U. A. M. band of Barton; Midland- Band, Cumberland Drum Corps, and
Jr. O. U. A. M. Zobo Band of Frostburg, which will lead the Oriental Court, the
comic feature of the parade.
I was also sorry I never saw the Zobo Band. Zobos were really Kazoos shaped
like band instruments. My Uncle Ollie Hammel was the leader and just about
every man in the neighborhood had a Zobo and played in the band. It was quite a
novelty, and they were even successful enough at first to be hired to play at
other picnics. With the money they earned, they put on a big fireworks show for
the community. My brother told me he always enjoyed watching one of the men who
was rather stout. He always wore a shirt which buttoned in the back and was
rather close-fitting. Clyde said you could always count on several of this
shirt buttons "parting company" as he enthusiastically played his Zobo. Watching
him was more fun than listening to the band. I was always sorry that a few
fellows in the band tooted too many sour notes and the band "disbanded" before I
grew up enough to hear them and watch them!
August 10th 1911 Auburn Citizen New York
Knights of Columbus Zobo band marched at Carnival parade
Sat, March 5, 2011 11:16:59
PM
The Bisbee
Phoenix Arizona
A zobo band on a wagon in a parade for the yearly shriners meeting in Arizona
Hints: Volumes 16-19 1913
Zobo Patriotic Drill. For any number of boys and girls in red, white
and blue costumes, who play patriotic airs on Zobo instruments while
forming novel marching figures and picturesque groups. The effect is
electrical and rouses the audience to enthusiastic….
ZOBO CORNET— Just the thing for
solos, duets, quartets, clubs, bugle corps, bicycle clubs, etc. It
is adapted for leading and highest voices. 11 inches long , 5 1-2
inch bell. Price $1. THE ENTERTAINMENT SHOP. 1 1 93 Broadway, ....
Zobo Band in Dyersville, Iowa, postcard sent in 1913
The Sherman, Clay & Co, San Francisco catalog 1914
has a whole page about zobos and sonophones:
The September 30th 1915 edition of Our Town from
Narberth PA. :
This Friday evening the
Y.M.C.A. Glee Club will start rehearsals for the show to be given about the middle of November.The club has added to its list some exceptionally fine talent, including Fletcher W. Stites, who will appear as interlocutor in the first part op dthe black face minsterl
W.Arthur Cole and Charles Mirick will have the principal end positions this year. Another of the new members is Mr. Whiterow, well know in Narberth for his fine basso singing. There wil be a special scenic effect in the form of an elaborate stairway, illuminated with different colored electric lights. This stairway will be occupied by the younger boys of Narberth who have never appeared before. They will compose a zobo band.
First Congregational.
East Third street, near Prendergast avenue in
Jamestown, New York; organized in 1816 has a Zobo band
The Maui News June 30th 1916
Everything' Ready For The Big Show
The Big Carnival will open with a bang next Monday afternoon at 4:00 P.M.
at
the
baseball
grounds
in
Wailuku and
will
keep
up
until
midnight,
and
possibly
a
little
later.
A
street
parade
of horribles, such
as has never
been
seen
on
Maui
will
precede
the
big
event. The
Zoo will
be
opened
at
about
2
o'clock
to
allow
the
animals
to
roam
about
Kahului and
Wailuku,
but
the
management
of
the
Carnival
has
given
the
police assurance
that
the
lion,
bears
and
wild
animals
will
be
kept
caged
up. Maui
has
never
seen
so
many
weird
animals
together
at.
any
time.....
The
Hawaiian
and
Portuguese
booths
will
be
typical
of
the
nations
they
represent, while the flower, candy
and
fancy
booth
will
be
tastily
decorated
to
suit.
A zobo band
has
also
been
engaged to
furnish
some
of
the
music,
in
case
the
regular
music
is
unable
to
stand
the
strain.
Augustine
Pombo
is ring-master
of the
Circus,
and
will
lead
his
band
of
wild
animals
through
the
streets......
The Great Bend Weekly Tribune, Kansas 28 May 1909, Fri,
Page 7
A WOMAN'S PRIVILEGE by Lucy E. Hobbs.
MARCH BROTHERS, Publishers, 208, 210, 212 Wright Avenue, LEBANON, OHIO.
Copyright, 1918, by MARCH BROTHERS.
COL. ZOOZOO'S ZOBO BAND. Patriotic burlesque novelty. Makes fun of the
merriest sort. "Col. Zoozoo" and "fake" orchestra entertain.' A great hit 25c
1920 Searcy Arkansas High School:
Tony Sbarbaro
Tony Sbarbaro playing a Zoboo
Tony
Sbarbaro, drummer of the Original Dixie Jazz Band played a
trumpetshaped kazoo, that according to the New York Times obituary
was called a Zobo and was created for him in Chicago. "He played it
wherever he went."
Sbarbaro is playing the zobo in this track,
Crazy Blues by
the ODJB, recorded in New York, Jan 28, 1921. From 6" onwards.
Zobo Musical Cigar, by Yoosful Novelty Co, 106 Franklin Street New York, 'a
brass band in your vest pocket'.
well, it seems fitting to return from working with wood and sound
on an architectural scale, to discover the mammoth zobo phunnygraph
in an old zobo musical instrument broadside circa 1900 that was
waiting for me in my po box. the zobo musical instrument family was
made by the j. and p. myers company in nyc, and consisted of a
series of kazoo type instruments shaped like real brass instruments
- including a 27 inch long "slide trombone".
along with a listing of different zobo instruments, the broadside
has suggestions for military band, bicycle band, female college
quartet, and the amazing funny organ (which includes a 10 foot by 9
foot cardboard printed paper image of a pipe organ that a "zobo
band" can stand behind).
of course, the phunnygraph is the most amazing of the bunch - a
crude richard tuttle-esque replica of an early phonograph made with
a soap crate, a wooden packing box, and a pasteboard megaphone. the
band should be stationed hidden inside the thing, while one person
stands outside turning the crank (it's too bad they don't have
suggestions on how to make a mammoth surrogate 78!). the whole thing
looks a lot like one of russolo's
"intonorumori" (and 5 kids and a gaggle of kazoos could probably
give russolo the kind of noise-scape he was after).
i'm thinking/hoping there is somehow a connection to this room
size sound projecting space and the things i've just finished in the
post below... or perhaps it will end up as partial fodder for the
next project...
www.gabbf.com/fguide/1999/conf0606.html:
With the area of old instruments, Foreman will speak about ``Zobo: The Musical
Wonder.'' Foreman notes that there were zobos were kazoo-like instruments and
there were entire zobo bands. ``It really was an attempt to capitalize on the
fact that everybody wanted to be in the band,'' Foreman said. Kazoos are small,
open tubes with a top hole covered by a membrane that gives a buzzing quality to
tones hummed through the tube. Kazoos were invented in 1883 and zobos, which
were made in the shapes of instruments found in bands, came along in 1896.
HISTORY OF THE KAZOO
The most common story is that somewhere in Africa,
some people discovered that dried spider-egg sacs could be used so that humming
just right into a tube changed the sound. You could sound like someone else (or
like no one). You could sound like an animal. In other places in the world,
other people were doing sort of the same thing. We call this kind of instrument
(one that buzzes) a mirliton. These were around in Europe from at least the
1600s. Maybe sooner.
Captain Kazoo told that someone named Alabama Vest took the idea to a
German clock maker named Thaddeus Von Glegg and they made a kazoo. That was
somewhere around 1840. A traveling salesman named Emil Sorg saw this, thought it
would be something easy to sell. In New York, he joined with Michael McIntyre, a
metal worker. This led to the first metal kazoo in 1912. Mass production began
in 1914, and in 1916, The Original
American Kazoo Company was formed. This company is still there, along with a
really neat museum. At first, it was treated as a real musical instrument. It
became part of serious music, then later part of folk music. It fit in very well
with bands that also used homemade instruments.
"When, at the age of 11, I was a member of the Blackstone Military band ...
{I was a} virtuoso on what was called a "zobo" - a brass horn with a membrane on
one end, which would transform humming to a delightfully brass impressiveness!"
[12/13/1930 to August Derleth in Lord of a Visible World, Joshi, 2000]
Even in the day no one had a clue what Lovecraft was talking about. Obviously it
sounds much like a "kazoo", but Chrispy has found a few more clues with diligent
research.
"Images from The Alan G. Bates Harmonica Collection: "Harmonophone" Harmonica
with Funnel-Shaped, Zobo Resonator, NMM 8396. "Harmonophone" harmonica with
funnel-shaped resonator, Clover brand, Klingenthal, ca. 1900. Attached to the
narrow end of the funnel-shaped resonating chamber is a cup-shaped "Zobo"
mouthpiece containing a thin, vibrating membrane that is capable of producing a
sound like a kazoo. Alan G. Bates Collection, 2000. "
Zobo coll. Metropolitan Museum of Art New York
Zobo was a
turn-of-the-20th-century brand name for a toy
generally known onomatopoeically as the kazoo. A kazoo is a voice modifier that
consists of a flexible, inelastic membrane, like waxed paper, attached to a
tube. Vocalizing into the tube excites the membrane to buzz loudly, disguising
and intensifying the voiced tone.. The use of such a membrane modifies the tone
of instruments as varied as Chinese flutes and African xylophones. Kazoos have
occasionally been included in modern scores such as Leonard Bernstein’s Mass
(1971) and Maurice Wright’s Like an Autumn Sky (1980). Less formally,
the University of Chicago recently fielded a kazoo marching band. Earlier in
the 20th century, kazoos imitated cornets and
trumpets in jug bands. Otto Langey’s Zobo tutor, advertised in the 1902 Sears
catalogue, contained scales and exercises to make good the “wish book’s” glowing
encomium: “Anybody can play, anybody can buy; brilliant martial and orchestral
music at a small cost; best and cheapest sacred music. The Zobo Musical
Instruments are the latest addition to the Zobo [line], and are rapidly becoming
the most popular amusement in the novelty and musical way, as the tone is
produced by singing into them. Anyone can play them without difficulty, and
produce good music or any imitations if so desired; with Zobo Brass Band
Instruments a brass band can be organized with men or boys who have no knowledge
of musical instruments whatever, but with a few rehearsals are capable of
rendering brilliant music, and producing instrumental effects possible hitherto
to none but the best brass band and orchestra.”
All of the various Zobos, illustrated in 16 forms in the C. Bruno & Son’s
1903-1904 wholesale catalogs, were related to Chicagoan Warren H. Frost’s patent
of January 7, 1896 (552,612). source: American Musical Instruments in the
Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1985
The complete Zobo collection of Christoph Pelgen
Die Croonies, a German band playing 20's hits, with the Zobo collection of
Christoph Pelgen (front, right)
The Zobo collection of David Mathewson (with one Bob Burns Bazooka to the left)
Gravure with ZOBO CORNETTO in mirror writing
Zobo brochure, source Ebay 2015
OnlineAthens.com
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Area law enforcement authorities put an end to brass ring
Detective William Horton, Administrative Assistant Lee Black, Police Chief Lee
O'Dillon with the recovered Zobo collection.
By
Staff Reportsnews@onlineathens.com
– updated Saturday, May 30, 2015 - 5:02am
It was a BOLO for stolen Zobos whose ending was a
resounding success. The owner of 24 stolen antique Zobo Cornets, a rare
brass musical instrument resembling other horn instruments, was reunited
with his missing property this week with the help of the Watkinsville
Police Department and the Oglethorpe County Sheriff’s Department.
Shortly after the hoard of Zobos was reported stolen, the owner
discovered someone was accepting eBay bids on antique musical
instruments. He notified the Watkinsville police and they were able to
identify and locate the eBay account holder. Watkinsville police and
Oglethorpe County investigators traveled to a Lexington house and the
Zobos were recovered, all still in good condition. The Zobos were
produced in 1896 and carry a collector value in the thousands of
dollars. The person in possession of the Zobos was able to provide
police with information on when and where he obtained them. The
Lexington resident is fully co-operating with authorities. The Zobos
were reported stolen from a Greensboro Highway storage unit on April 14.
The owner placed them in storage while work was being done at his
residence. The investigation into who broke into the storage unit is
on-going and criminal charges are pending.
Au début de la 20ème siècle il y avait d’autres exemples d’amplification des
intruments de musique à l’aide d’une cornette. L’idee du jewsaphone n’est pas
unique ! Par example Johann Matthias Augustus Stroh inventait le violon Stroh (breveté
en 1899 #GB189909418), un violon avec une cornette et qui était produit entre
1904 et 1942 par George Evans and Co. à Londres. Il y a aussi des guitares Stroh
et des Ukeleles Stroh du même genre. En 1910 un certain Arthur Thomas Howson
inventa une Phono-fiddle (No. de brevet #14461), un instrument très proche du
violon Stroh mais avec une seule corde et une differente façon de transférer le
son à la cornette . Recherchez sur Google en introduisant les termes,
Stroh-viols ou Phono-fiddle si vous souhaitez approfondir vos connaissances sur
ces instruments. Apparemment ces instruments sont toujours fabriqués en Europe
de l’Est !
Un autre violon avec cornette est le violinofon de Prague, Czechie, aussi de la
fin de 19ème siècle.
A l’épôque il y avait aussi des mirlitons métalliques avec un pavillon avec des
noms comme Bigo(t)phone (nommé d’après le nom de son inventeur, Bigot
Paris 1883), Zobo, jazzaphone, kazoophone ou
‘trumpet kazoo’. Des ‘zobobands’ ou ‘orchestres Zobo’ etaient populaires au
tournant du 19ème au 20ème siècle en Amérique, ainsi que les ‘orchestres
bigophone’ en Europe (et au Canada).
Et il y a beaucoup d’exemples d’harmonica avec des pavillons.
Le plus extraordinaire que j’ai trouve lors de ce tour rapide sur Internet , est
l’harmonica avec pavillon et une membrane de mirliton, l’harmonophone.
It's interesting to compare the history of the Zobo with that of the
Bigophone in France: fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bigophone (in French)
Strauss also manufactured other metal toys like the climbing Monkey,
dancing windup toys, ring toss games..
Ferdinand Strauss, toy merchant, was born November 27, 1865 in
Gilheim-Bavaria Germany son of Moritz. He immigrated to the US from bremen
on May 14, 1884. He was naturalized in New York in 1890. Address in 1925 146
Central Park West.
1920: Ferdinand Strauss 52, president toy company, Juliet M
Strauss 50, Madeline I Strauss 21
There are a ton of Ferdinand Strauss mechanical tin toys on the
Internet.also a ton on sale on ebay.
Strauss Doraphone
The Songophone and the Sonophone
The
patent for the Songophone was registered by
Louis N. Crakow on December 11th 1900. Crakow was secretary-treasurer in the Zobo
Mfg Co in 1897.
Louis National Crakow (born 1872) was the son of
Hiram L. Crakow (1843-1897), a dealer in "fancy goods," gentlemen's furnishings
and hats from around 1867 until his death in 1897. The family appears in the US
Census of 1880 living at 160 Bowery (the gent's furnishings business was at this
address from around 1871 until the mid-1890s). Louis is recorded as 7 years old
at the time. Living with him was his older brother, David Sylvan Crakow, age 10.
Both boys appear again in the 1900 US Census
living with their widowed mother, Emma R. Crakow, on East 116th St., Manhattan.
David Crakow's occupation is listed as Real Estate, while Louis N.'s is "Musical
Novelties."
David Crakow was in the real estate business in
New York from around 1894 to the early 1940s, while L. National Crakow & Co.,
Advertising seems to have been Louis N. Crakow's first business (appears in
listings from 1901 through 1904). Louis seems to have continued in the
advertising novelties business until around 1915 when he and his wife, Hattie L.
Crakow, began a children's and ladies' wear manufacturing firm at 1265 Broadway.
It was this business that relocated to 119 W. 25th St. in 1920, where they
stayed until 1924. In the early-1930s a new manifestation of Mr. & Mrs. L. N.
Crakow, called The Truth Shop (Ladies' Furnishings) opened on Lexington Ave.
near 78th St.
In Principles and practice of advertising(New York 1913, p41-42) Gerald Bertram Wadsworth describes the relation between Zobo and the Songophone as an example of destructive competition.
"Some years ago a commodity knows as the Zobo was put on the market. It consisted of a hollow tube of wood, over one end of which was stretched a diaphragm consisting of a piece of goldbeater's skin. By humming
into a hole, on one side of the tube, an effect was produced very similar to that which can be obtained with a piece of paper and a comb, except that is was louder.
In it’s original state it constituted a mediocre commodity. However the principle was employed to much better advantage. By carefully selecting the skin used for the diaphragm and stretching it horizontally over the small end of a bell-shaped horn, and fitting over this a mouthpiece, a person humming into this mouthpiece
would have his voice amplified to a considerable extent and could produce music quite similar to that of a cornet.
This instrument was retailed at $1.00 and a steadily increasing business was developed. However competition
killed it. Another manufacturer entered the field. He employed a brass-plated tin horn He used no care in the selection of the diaphragm skins, and, to avoid an infringement suit, the diaphragm was stretched obliquely instead of
horizontally. This combination was called the Sonophone and produced ear-splitting, heart- rending sounds. But it retailed for 50 cents. Besides it gave the dealer a larger percentage of profits. "More sales and bigger profits"
the manufacturer told the dealer and he fell for it. The reputation resulting from the advertising and intrinsic merit of the Zobo created a demand for that class of commodity. To all appearances the
Sonophone and the Zobo were identical. Neither one could be played effectively without practice so that the average consumer was unable to judge of the sound quality of either, any more than can an inexperienced person judge the sound or tonal quality of a violin. In consequence, it seemed poor policy for the
consumer to pay a dollar when he could apparently obtain the same thing for 50 cents. Therefore, the Sonophone displaced the Zobo. Proficient playing upon it was impossible and it was soon thrown into
the rubbish heap. In the meantime the demand for that class of commodities was killed.
New York Band Instrument Co. Toneking Musical Instruments. Catalog No. 16. NY, NY: [ca. 1915], 112 p. is reported to list the song-o-phone.
The 1915 Sherman, Clay &Co catalog shows the Zobo and Sonophone side by side and makes clear that there's a big difference in their prices, the Zobos being two to four times as expensive as the Sonophones.
Popular Science Nov 1917ad 1917
The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 3 January 1919 The Singapore Free Press and Mercantile Advertiser, 12 February 1919,
Boys Life Nov 1919Boys Life Feb 1920Boy's Life Oct 1920Boy's Life Dec 1926
MTR 1922-74-15 44 April 15th 1922
SONOPHONE CO. TO MOVE
Musical Toy Manufacturing Concern to Secure Larger Quarters
On and after April 15 the Sonophone Co., which has been
manufacturing imitation band instruments and musical toys at 35 South Ninth
street, Brooklyn, N. Y., will be located in a new building at 548 Wythe avenue, Brooklyn. The change was made
necessary because of the need of larger quarters and improved manufacturing
facilities due to the greatly increased demand for the product.
MTR 1922 75-24 Dec 9th 1922
MTR 1922 75 - 26
SAN FRANCISCO, CAL., December 18.—The Hanson Music House has
just sold two Buescherphones, the instruments going to the California Theatre
for Ben Black's Band and to the Sciots' Band, of San Mateo, respectively. Ralph Eliaser, sales manager for the Hanson Music House, says that a
number of toy band instruments imported from France are selling rapidly.
Song-O-Phones, made by the Songophone Co., Brooklyn, N. Y., are also in demand.
Music trades: Volume 65 1923 -
SONOPHONE CO. GETS NEW ACCOUNTS Mrs. BM Carlisle, Manager, Makes Suggestions to Dealers on Window Displays "By displaying new instruments properly in show
windows, musical merchandise dealers can easily build up larger sales," said Mrs.Carlisle, manager of the Sonophone Co, Brooklyn N.Y, makers of the popular
line of imitation band instruments. Mrs. Carlisle recommends that small goods dealers now selling Song-O-Phones display some of their stock in windows to increase the sales of all lines of goods children's. Not only do imitation band musical instruments stimulate the organization of bands and orchestras, but they encourage older persons to buy these instruments
for entertaining at homes, clubs, social gatherings.
Music Trades Volume 65 1923 More money can be made by selling musical merchandise and their accessories; but this business must be
attended to carefully. How many small goods dealers know that Song-O-phone imitation band musical instruments sound excellent when
Rudolph Wurlitzer & Co catalogue 1924:
Boys
Life Nov 1926
MTR 1926 83 24 Dec 11th 1926
Popular Mechanics maart 1927
Presto Times June 23rd 1928
Sonophones in Ziegfeld Follies.
The Sonophone Company, 548 Wythe street, Brooklyn, N. Y., on
Wednesday, through Mrs. Carlisle, president, reports the demand for the
Sonophone, an instrument that has been manufactured with success for many years past, keeps up at a lively rate and the plant is
busy. She showed a picture of a great chorus at the Ziegfeld Theater, New York,
with 100 sonophones in use on the stage at once. Many of the biggest houses in the musical instrument line in America handle
sonophones as an accessory. The instrument does not require notes; the performer
sings through it.
Songophone keyed trumpet from 1929 catalog
Quality Band and Orchestra Instruments of J.W.Jenkins' Sons Music Co.
Recreation, National Recreation Office, 1932
Start a band, "Play at once"
Evryy playground should have a SONG-O-PHONE band. They help develop healthy lungs and an ear for musical harmony in growing children.
NO NOTES TO READ No musical training required. Without practice or study children can produce fine orchestral effects on these wonder instruments.
Hundreds of succesful SONG-O-PHONE bands attest to the popularity of these quickly played Saxophones. Cornets, Trombones, Clarinets etc. Inexpensive 70c to
$3.25 each. Send for instructions "how to organize a SONG-O-PHONE band"
Zobo
trio Colorado
Ad
in Printers Ink, May 31 1899
Ad, Jan 1 1900. 
Rochester Zobo Band
based on the same 1896 Jan 7th patent
1902
ad
Zobo Bassonette, 6" long, bell diameter 3.5" 
The
Review of Reviews for Australasia Dec. 1905 ad.
Zobo Musical Cigar, by Yoosful Novelty Co, 106 Franklin Street New York, 'a
brass band in your vest pocket'.
The Zobo collection of David Mathewson (with one Bob Burns Bazooka to the left)
Zobo brochure, source Ebay 2015
Detective William Horton, Administrative Assistant Lee Black, Police Chief Lee
O'Dillon with the recovered Zobo collection.
Strauss Doraphone
Boys Life May 1914
Boys Life July 1914
Oct 1914
Sonophone ad 1915
Popular Science Nov 1917
ad 1917
Boys Life Nov 1919
Boys Life Feb 1920
Boy's Life Oct 1920
Boy's Life Dec 1926
Boys
Life Nov 1926
Popular Mechanics maart 1927
Songophone keyed trumpet from 1929 catalog
Quality Band and Orchestra Instruments of J.W.Jenkins' Sons Music Co.