Description
Often called the French style, drums such as this were heavily imported in 1861 mostly by Northern outfitters who wanted to secure lucrative state and government supply contracts. This fine drum retains the original pulls, which seldom survived. One skin has a split as shown in the images provided.
This drum surfaced at an estate sale in western Massachusetts over 30 years ago and it has been in a private collection ever since. Unlike wooden body drums, the brass examples produced far more volume in the field and they were widely sought after by drummers.
It was found in an estate in Massachusetts along with an 1862 dated Ames musicians sword and photograph, both of which belonged to Corp. Nehemiah Davis who served in the 18th Massachusetts, Company D, from August 24, 1861 until October 21, 1864 and then served in the 32nd Massachusetts Infantry from then until June 29, 1865 according to the documented family related history.
Davis’ obituary of November 13, 1922 stated that he had served at Yorktown, 2nd Manassas, Antietam, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, Rappahannock Station and the Wilderness. He also served for a time with the 32nd Massachusetts Infantry, losing his right forefinger at Hatchers Run.
The sword is currently listed as well and the photograph of him is currently being acquired and may be listed later. The person who purchased the items from the family was George Sanders who dealt in Civil War antiques–he lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and the items were purchased from his wife. The original provenance tag, signed by George, is included with the drum and copies will be included with the photograph and sword. George offered the drum and photograph for sale over a decade ago for $1,095.
