Roller Organ, circa 1890

01

Artifact Overview

Inexpensive hand-cranked reed organs were an affordable and instant way to have music at home during the late 19th century. The "Concert Roller Organ" has a small roller or "cob" pinned with one tune in a spiral pattern. The organ sold for between $3.25 and $7.60, with additional rollers selling for 18 cents.

Artifact Details

Artifact

Orchestral organette

Date Made

circa 1890

Place of Creation

Creator Notes

Case made in the United States and roller mechanism made in Germany.

Location

Object ID

00.4.3045

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford.

Material

Walnut (Wood)
Glass (Material)
Wood (Plant material)

Dimensions

Height: 12.5 in
Width: 15 in
Length: 18 in

Inscriptions

CONCERT ROLLER ORGAN