Object Record
Images
Additional Images [16]
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2007.01.01 |
Object Type |
Xylophone |
Creator |
J. C. Deagan, Inc. |
Title |
Model 830 "Lite Wate" Xylophone |
Description |
Deagan "Lite Wate" encased xylophone, Model 830. Three octaves, C5 to C8. Black plastic case with heavily rusted latch and torn cardboard and leather handle. J.C. Deagan badge under middle latch. Off-white paint and sparkly faded orange wrap on xylophone frame inside of case. 4 support beams, 2 end pieces, 2 resonators and wood keys inside case. Possible insect damange in felt on support beams. |
Dimensions |
H-5.5 W-13.5 L-22.5 inches |
People |
J. C. Deagan, Inc. |
Additional Research |
Founded in 1880, the J. C. Deagan Company marketed well over 100 different models of xylophones during its extensive history of manufacturing tuned percussion instruments. While a significant number of the early model numbers were merely a distinction of being tuned at high pitch or low pitch, the remaining number of models represent Deagan's constant evolution of the instrument based on changing uses in the types of ensembles utilizing xylophones and the functional need for various performers. The Lite-Wate model xylophone, which went through several variations during the 1920s and '30s, was created to fill a need for jobbing drummers who desired a highly portable instrument that might be used as a part of their drumkit, as well as for beginning students. It was designed to fit into a single case, easily carried, yet constructed with bars of a size and material that still sounded at a professional level. This 1930s model 830, the Master Lite-Wate Xylophone, is constructed with a maple frame, assembled with slotted "mission" joints and covered with a silver-flaked Pryalin wrap. The Pryalin now has a rusted-orange color, due to aging and exposure to the elements, which is common to all drum wraps manufactured with cellulose. The instrument has a chromatic range of three octaves, C5 to C8, with rosewood bars measuring from 12½ to 4¼ inches in length, all having a 1¼-inch width and 5/8-inch height. The instrument stands 29.5 inches high, with a length of 36 inches and a 20-inch width at the large end. Though most Model 830s were sold with flatbraced, angled folding stands with the option of leg extensions for standing, this instrument has the optional tube stand without leg extensions resulting in its height of 29.5. The instrument utilizes folding, aluminum resonators which, along with all other parts, packs easily into a reinforced fiber suitcase that measures 23 x 14 x 5 inches, all weighing 26 pounds. Percussive Notes, May 2019. |
Credit line |
Gift of Doyle Bigham |