Columbian Exposition Snare Drum - Image 1

According to William F. Ludwig II, this ornately decorated, rope tension snare drum was made by Lyon & Healy for exhibition at the 1893 Columbian Exposition in Chicago. Although there is an extra length of rope attached for slinging the drum over the player's shoulder for use while marching, this well-preserved, ornate drum appears to have had little use other than as a showpiece. Both the shell and rims are made of figured maple. The heads are made of calfskin.