Drumstick once used by the Foxdale Miners' Prize Band
Date made: late 19th century
Description: Musical instrument. This is a drum beater for the bass drum of the Foxdale Miners Prize Band. It is made of wood, with a felt head, and has cord whipping on the shaft. A 1904 register of band members shows the bass drummer to be an F. Crellin, so he may well have used this drumstick.
Brass bands were tremendously popular in the late 19th century. Many industrial areas had one, they were a source of great pride and a focus for local identity. Foxdale band won prizes at the Douglas band contest of 1896, and also played regularly in Peel for tourists. The Isle of Man Examiner of September 18 1897 carried an advert for a charity garden fete, in aid of St Mark's repair fund, where the 'FOXDALE MINER PRIZE BAND (by kind permission of Capt. Kitto) will play at intervals during the day.'
Measurements: overall: 42.5 x 2.5 cm
Materials: wood, wool
Object name: drumstick
Collection: Social History Collection
ID Number: 1959-0221/3