NMM 10817. Snare drum by Harry A. Bower, Boston, 1918 Click on any image below to see a larger image NMM 10817. Snare drum by Harry A. Bower, Boston, 1918. Leatheroid shell (composite material made from chemically treated cellulose) with walnut veneer, 314mm (12-3/8") x 150mm (5-3/4"). Single-tension with six rods. Each rod has hooks on both ends that pull directly on the heads. No rims, heads tucked over flesh hoops (metal) and placed directly on drum. Strainer (patented Aug. 14, 1917) has long bar running the length of the snares, pressing the snares against the head. Two throw-off mechanisms—one on each side—release the snares. Originally belonged to Charles F. Komarek (1911-1975), a lifelong school music educator, conductor, and trumpet soloist. Gift of Anita Smisek, Sinsinawa, Wisconsin, 2005. Label Paper label inside shell: The "BOWER" Drum / TRADEMARK / The "BOWER" DRUM is a / new creation. Invented and manufactured by the world's / authority on drums and / drumming, and the author / and publisher of the "Harry / A. BOWER SYSTEM." No. 379 [handwritten] / Harry A. Bower Boston, Mass. Stamped near top of label: Charles F. Komarek / 325 West 2nd Street / Waconia, Minn. 55387. Written in marker on batter head: Property of Charles Komarek. Stamped twice on strainer: PAT AUG 14 17. Stamped on snare head: TRANSPARENT / L & L [Ludwig & Ludwig] / CROWN-HEAD. Additional Views Interior of Drum Shell Rim on Exterior of Drum Interior View of Vent Hole Go to Checklist of European and American Rod-Tension Snare Drums National Music Museum The University of South Dakota 414 East Clark Street Vermillion, SD   57069 ©National Music Museum, 2008 Most recent update:   April 18, 2008 You are the 1,999th visitor to this page since April 18, 2008. The University of South Dakota Return to Top of Page