Leken - made for William Cole No.24809

[sam]

I have the above piano. Can anyone please tell me anything about it? I have searched all over the place but cannot find the name Leken anywhere. Thanks a lot!

[Bill Kibby]

I know of J. Leker, and several firms named Cole, can you narrow it down by giving me any more details such as where you are in the world, or any addresses for the piano maker?

[sam]

Thanks Bill. I am in Sheffield, England. I bought the piano locally, second-hand about 15 years ago. I think its made of mahogony, that's about all I know.
Sam

[Bill Kibby]

W.F. Cole & Sons were dealers at 76,78 & 80, Surrey Street, Sheffield in 1911-14, but don't appear in any of my earlier Sheffield lists so far. "William Cole" suggests an earlier date, pre "& son". Leken is a mystery so far.

[sam]

Sorry Bill ! There IS something I forgot to mention. A piano dealer in Abbeydale Road, Sheffield told me that the name came from two names - Len and Ken - and that these people called their pianos Leken.

[Bill Kibby]

So the maker wasn't Leken, but in all probability it wasn't Cole either, they probably bought them in from wholesalers. This means that there is more chance that datemarks and codes can be found which are recognisable clues. Any photos?

[sam]

I'm afraid I don't have a photo. There is an oval badge painted in gold inside the piano. It has two pictures of two naked children offering each other flowers and the words 'We hereby guarantee that this Pianoforte to be in every way a thoroughly sound & reliable Instrument. Furthermore we undertake to rectify any defect due to faulty construction within FIFTEEN YEARS of date of sale.' The words 'Manufactured for William Cole' appear under the lid and the number 24809 is on the top of the side.