Conover and Conover Cable Company Piano History

In 1880, the Conover Company was established in Kansas City, Missouri. [1] By 1890, Conover and the Cable company merged to form the Conover Cable Company. This was a pivotal time in both of the company’s history and characterized the production of their pianos for the duration of their company existence. 

Soon after the merge, the company acquired the Schiller Piano Company. The Conover and Schiller piano brand models were their highest price point pianos. By 1904, The Conover Cable Company had the opportunity to save the Mason and Hamlin Piano Co. from bankruptcy and opened a new branch of the company. At that point, Conover Cable Company also obtained the Mason and Hamlin dealerships. [2] Eventually, the Conover Cable Company joined many of the early 20th-century piano manufacturers being bought by the Aeolian Corporation.

About Conover Cable Pianos

The Conover Cable Company was known for their five different grand models listed below: the Model 66 which is 5 feet 5 inches, which also was called the “Fairy Grand”, the Model 77 around 5 feet 10 inches, the Model 88 which is 6 feet 4 inches, and then two which had Mason & Hamlin plates modified to show the Conover logo. [2] [3] 

There were many variations, styles, and types that the Conover Cable Company produced during their tenure as a major player in the early-American piano industry. The acquisition of so many different brands added to their portfolio. 

Restoring a Conover Piano

The value of a Conover piano or a Conover-Cable piano is often similar to that of a Mason & Hamlin, Chickering, Knabe, and in most cases to the value of a Steinway [3]. If you are considering restoring your Conover piano, contact Lindeblad today. We can talk with you about the process and the estimated increase in restored value.

References:

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

[2] http://antiquepianoshop.com/online-museum/conover/

[3] http://www.bluebookofpianos.com/agesc.htm#CONOVER