Object Record
Images
Additional Images [2]
Metadata
Catalog Number |
2016.07.01 |
Object Type |
Marimba |
Creator |
J. C. Deagan, Inc. |
Title |
Model 36 Marimba |
Description |
Deagan Model 36 Marimba. Yellow and tan painted wooden frame with one central support. Frame is hinged to fold, cardboard resonators. 4 octaves C3-C7. Top accidental resonator is bent at top. Accidental resonators form an arch. Low C bar has J.C. DEAGAN / CHICAGO / MADE IN U.S.A." and "DEAGAN / NO. 36 / MARIMBA" |
Dimensions |
H-36 W-32 L-66 inches |
People |
Williamson, George "Bud" J. C. Deagan, Inc. |
Date |
c. 1944 |
Additional Research |
During World War II, restrictions were placed on the manufacture of musical instruments and other objects considered non-essential to the war effort in the United States. The metal components in these objects could constitute no more than ten percent of the total weight. As a result of this restriction, from 1943 to 1945 the J. C. Deagan company manufactured a four octave (C3-C7) marimba, model 36, with unique fiber resonators and wooden assembly joints. The instrument does contain several significant metal parts, including the suspension posts, connectors between the split bar rails and split center support rail, tension springs on the two suspension cords, parts of the wheels, small nails on the decorative wood end-board guards, and screws on the center rail connection to the end boards. However, all of these components still comprise less than ten per- cent of the instrument's total weight. The most innovative weight-saving feature is the construction of the resonators from fiber board that resembles a heavy cardboard tube and the mounting board to which the resonators are attached. In addition, all rails are attached to the end boards using wooden slots and dowels, with a tongue-and- groove connection. This instrument features a two-tone, gold-finished frame, felt insulators on the bar posts and Honduras rosewood bars, which range in size from 17" x 2" x 1" to 6.75" x 1.25" x .75". The frame of the instrument is 66 inches long, 36 inches high, and 32 inches wide at the large end. This marimba was a gift to George "Bud" Williamson from his parents in 1944, when he was 14 years old, and it remained in his possession until his death in 2014. During World War II, which created a shortage of male civilians, George, while only a sophomore in high school, was invited to join the Ohio University band as a percussionist, becoming the youngest-ever member of the OU band. Starting his first professional dance band at the age of 16, George used this instrument for all types of performances throughout his varied music career. Percussive Notes, November 2016. This marimba required ingenuity to produce. Metal was rationed during World War II, so paper and wood were used for many parts traditionally made of brass. Resonators, the amplifying tubes under each bar, are made of cardboard. The gold-finished frame added a level of luxury making this an ideal gift. In 1944, 14-year old George "Bud" Williamson was given this marimba by his parents. He kept it his whole life. Evolving Sounds, 2017. |
Credit line |
Gift of Mrs. George Williamson |