Brewer piano from George C. Bedwell

[jgmtennessee]

i have a piano i traded for some cabinet work and i could use some help with information if someone can. i have pictures i can send via e-mail or text. it is a Samuel Brewer & Co London piano and another embossed label says From GEORGE C. BEDWELL Musical instrument Warehouse Cecilia House Hills Road CAMBRIDGE. It is an upright grand (i think) burl wood, inside is the serial number 16111 S. BREWER&CO and another number SCB720. i want to restore it if it's appropriate and worth the restoration. it's a really nice piano(to me) and i would like to preserve it if it's doable. Has the original stool and the sheet music holder that folds out from the top. well carved woodwork. anyway i hope i could get some information on it. thanks in advance

[Bill Kibby]

Me again! I have already answered this by email. It looks like something from the 1880s, perhaps around 1882.

[Bill Kibby]

I have been approached by a descendant of the Bedwells, who would like to get in touch with you. My contact details should be displayed on the right.

[taradenham]

I live in Texas and am having a hard time dating and getting an estimate on a pump organ with the name Geo. C. Bedwell, Cambridge. It is in good condition and plays. I've tried attaching photos but either I'm doing something wrong or it isn't working.

Can someone please give me advise on a website that may be able to help? I haven't been able to find any local contacts.

Thank you.

[Bill Kibby]

There are a few organ websites, including one called Tardis. I deal with piano history, but there is a great overlap between the piano and organ trades.

Geogre Bedwell was originally a piano tuner, but by the 1880s, he had set up his musical instrument warehouse, and it seems unlikely that he made the organ, he probably bought it in from a wholesaler and applied his name to it.

Around 1896, the firm became a limited company, and by 1899 was referred to as "Ltd." so I presume your organ is dated before that.