Leedy 319 Monarch

Leedy 319 Monarch
Product Code: COHK5
Availability: Recently Sold

This is truly a rare and fine instrument.  First of all it is an instrument which appears to have been owned and played by Howard Goulden with the Sousa Band.  Fred Hinger acquired this instrument while serving in the US Navy Band in Washington DC where he was xylophone soloist for six years.  The trunk that accompanies this instrument is stenciled with the Sousa Band’s name and Howard Goulden’s name.  Research documents Howard Goulden as a xylophone soloist with the Sousa band having played on an “oversized” xylophone.  This instrument fits that description.  Also of note is that the Sousa band percussionists were Leedy endorsers in the 1920’s.

Bill Hinger explained that this instrument was always in the house and one that his dad, he and many of Fred Hinger’s students played.

This instrument dates back to the 1920’s, with the model number 319 stamped on the low bar. (after 1929 the model numbers changed).  Below is a copy of the 1928 Leedy catalog showing this instrument.

General Characteristics
Model 319
Era 1900-1928
Condition Excellent
Extra Holes or Modifications None
Date 1920s
Keyboard Characteristics
Octave Range 4 1/2 Octave
Note Range F - C
Tuning A = 440
Bar Finish Natural
Bar Material Rosewood