Packard Piano History

Packard Piano was originally established in 1871 in Fort Wayne, Indiana as the Packard Organ Company. [1] Up until 1893, Packard exclusively produced organs and entered into the piano making business in 1894. Once they began successful piano manufacturing, the company changed their name to Packard Piano & Organ Company.

Packard survived the crippling economic effects of the Great Depression, but they were ultimately purchased by Story & Clark Piano Company in 1938. Story & Clark continued to build Packard-named pianos until the middle of the 20th Century. [1] [2]

More About Packard Pianos

The Packard Piano company was known for their emphasis on their factory work environments. During the rise of the assembly line and Ford motors factory workflows, the Packard piano manufacturing process followed suit. One of the company's most promoted phrases is, “if there is no harmony in the factory, there will be none in the piano”. [2] The Indiana-based factory now is one of the largest midwest piano facilities still in production. [2]

Packard started out offering upright and baby grand pianos, and added player pianos later on in production. They were known for using quality types of wood for their cabinet designs. The Packard Interpreter player-piano (grand, upright and reproducing styles) has similar artistic characteristics as the Packard piano only with the added electronic player capabilities. [2]

Restoring a Packard Piano - Yes or No?

One of the most frequently asked questions we receive at Lindeblad is whether or not we think our customers' pianos are worth the investment in restoration. While there are some definitive measures for whether you will see a return on your investment, much of the decision boils down to your attachment and the significance of the piano to you.

Packard pianos are highly recommended in the industry, and Lindeblad can work with you today to begin the restoration process. Get started today!

References:

[1] Pierce, W. Robert. Pierce Piano Atlas: Anniversary Edition, 2017 Our 70th Year. Albuquerque: Ashley, 2017. Print.

[2] http://www.bluebookofpianos.com/agesp.htm#PACKARD