Flute used by Alton Augustus Adams Sr.

Object Details

Manufactured by: Cundy-Bettoney Company, American, founded 1907
Subject of: Alton Augustus Adams Sr., Danish West Indian American, 1889 - 1987

Description: A silver flute in three parts used by Alton Augustus Adams Sr. The head joint (2014.263.1.1a) has a lip plate with an embouchure hole near the crown of the flute. The other end of the piece is open. A removable silver cap (2014.263.1.1d) can be placed over the opened end. The flute body (2014.263.1.1b) has raised ribs on one side where the head joint slides into to it. Inscribed on this end is [ALTON A ADAMS / (logo for H. BETTONEY / BOSTON) / BANDMASTER / ST. THOMAS V. I. or U.S. / 5 512 / PAT. SEPT. 14. 1915]. Keys are on one side of the body. A removable silver barrel (2014.263.1.1e) can be placed over this end of the flute. The foot joint (2014.263.1.1c) of the flute has raised ribs where it attaches to the body. Keys are on one side of the foot joint.

Credit Line: Collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, Gift of Alton A. Adams, Jr. Trustee

ca. 1915

Restrictions & Rights: No Known Copyright Restrictions; Proper usage is the responsibility of the user.

Place made: Boston, Suffolk County, Massachusetts, United States, North and Central America
Place used: Virgin Islands of the United States, United States, North and Central America

See more items in: National Museum of African American History and Culture Collection
Classification: Musical Instruments
Exhibition: Musical Crossroads
On View: NMAAHC (1400 Constitution Ave NW), National Mall Location, Culture/Fourth Floor, 4 053

National Museum of African American History and Culture

GUID (Link to Original Record): http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/fd5fa390826-7533-4062-8303-c37847b8def2