3323 A WONDERFUL EARLY MAINE MILITIA DRUM FROM THE

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This item SOLD at 2023 May 14 @ 15:17UTC-4 : AST/EDT
Category Firearms & Military
Auction Currency USD
Start Price 600.00 USD
Estimated at 1,200.00 - 2,000.00 USD

AROOSTOOK COUNTY WAR PERIOD. This drum measures 18 1/2" in height with a diameter of 16 3/4". It has dull red painted rims as often seen on early Maine drums. The body of the drum has brass domed tack decoration and forged tacks down the seam. The face of the drum is boldly painted “M A I N E No5” in black. The vent hole is pewter and reveals an interior label that reads “STATE DRUMS MANUFACTURED BY INCREASE BLAKE, Farmington Falls, Me. 1839.” Given the early 1839 date this drum could have been utilized during the Aroostook County War disputing the border between Northern Maine and Canada, which was “fought” in 1838 and 1839. Both top and bottom skin on the drum appear original and are complete. The top skin has a stain eerily reminiscent of a blood stain. Ropes are complete and retain 5 original tugs. CONDITION: the drum remains exceptionally solid but might benefit from a kind cleaning. (02-18997/BF). $1,200-2,000.