The History of Smith and Barnes Pianos
Originally called C. A. Smith and Company, the Smith and Barnes Piano Company was incorporated in 1891 in Chicago, IL. In 1906, after merging with the Strohber Piano Company, Smith and Barnes became known as Smith, Barnes, and Strohber. [1]
Under this name, the company became one of the largest piano manufacturers in the country, [2] producing pianos out of Milwaukee, Chicago, and Boston. [3] Well-known for their player pianos, Smith and Barnes were a very popular choice and could be found in many piano-owning households across America. Sadly, when the Great Depression hit, Smith and Barnes pianos were officially taken out of production.
About Smith and Barnes Pianos
Known as “the Pioneer Pianos of the West” because they were the first pianos available for a wholesale trade out of Chicago, [4] Smith and Barnes pianos are considered first-class and carefully crafted. The scale of a Smith and Barnes piano is carefully drawn and very accurate, and they have superior tone [5]. Even though they were produced to be sold in great quantity, the Smith and Barnes name is synonymous with quality – a feat that is difficult to achieve even with modern-day technology.
Restoring a Smith and Barnes Piano
Because there were so many Smith and Barnes pianos produced, there are more pianos on the market than there are buyers. This lowers their overall value. Many owners cherish their Smith and Barnes pianos for their sentimental value, as they are worth very little unrestored. Restored, however, they can be worth $3,000-$11,000, depending on the model. Contact Lindeblad and let us walk you through how we can give your Smith and Barnes piano new life.
References:
[1] Pierce, W. Robert. Pierce Piano Atlas: Anniversary Edition, 2017 Our 70th Year. Albuquerque: Ashley, 2017. Print.
[2] Freund, John C. The Purchasers Guide to the Music Industries: with Which Is Incorporated The Piano and Organ Purchasers Guide. Music Trades and Musical America, 1939. Print.
[3] Pierce, W. Robert. Pierce Piano Atlas: Anniversary Edition, 2017 Our 70th Year. Albuquerque: Ashley, 2017. Print.
[4] http://www.bluebookofpianos.com/agess.htm#SMITH%20&%20BARNES
[5] Freund, John C. The Purchasers Guide to the Music Industries: with Which Is Incorporated The Piano and Organ Purchasers Guide. Music Trades and Musical America, 1939. Print.
