This is an example of a large, original bass drum produced by the well-known drum making firm of Sempf & Ottes of New York City, NY. Popular with many military, militia and cornet bands prior to, during and after the Civil War years, this example is in just fair condition.

The circular wooden shell is constructed of veneered, pliable wood such as ash or maple that is in strong and tight condition with few cracks and no breaks. Measures a large 32" in diameter x 16" wide. Shell interior features the original maker's label that is 6½" long x 2½" wide. Label is light colored paper glued to the interior wall of the drum. The printed label is faded and torn in places with missing and unreadable portions. Label reads "FROM / SEMPF & OTTES, manufacturers of / BASS AND SNARE DRUMS / Nos. 209 / 211 Grand St / NEW YORK / (these words undiscernable)." A 2½" wide, center wood reinforcing rib lines the entire inside diameter for support and is flanked with a 1¼" wide rib at each edge of the shell. Wood shell exterior shows scattered light splitting of the surface.

Also features a painted design in gold in the shape of a modified shield device that is 12" high x 10" wide. Prominently displayed on lower half of the shield's face are the painted block and script letters "BRASS / BAND". A small ½" diameter 'peep' hole is located at the bottom center of the shield. Upper portion of the shield appears to have had other letters painted on at one time shown but they have been rubbed or scraped off. Drum specimen is missing its tensioners, ropes, ears, and skins but does retain both heads. One head is still attached to the original shell but the other head has been converted into a support band that encompasses a circular piece of plywood that acts as a tabletop.

This seldom seen and wonderful "Sempf & Ottes" Civil War era bass drum instrument would make a great re-restoration project.

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