Boston, Mass
E. G. Wright

Brass and silver
ca 1843-1846
Length: 13 in; Bell rim diameter: 4.5 in
Wind Instruments – Brasswinds – Bugles/Keyed Bugles

Engraved on silver bell rim:  E.G. Wright Maker Boston (additional decorative engraving design)

A 10 keyed E-flat bugle made of copper with 10 sterling silver posts and pin mounted keys. One of the earlier known Wright E-flat keyed bugles. Engraved on bell silver rim, “E.G. Wright Maker Boston”, Circa 1843-1846. The bugle came in an interesting wooden fitted case. The case is lined with chamois and is very stained and worn. The mouth piece is marked with a large “J” over a smaller “C” which is over yet a smaller “O”. Elbridge G. Wright was considered the foremost US maker of keyed bugles.  This keyed bugle is in pristine condition and has never been restored.  Was found in an old barn stuffed between bales of hay in Michigan.

The first key bugle patent (5-keys) was by Joseph Halliday in 1811, which he called the Royal Kent bugle in honor of the Duke of Kent.  The keyed bugle was introduced to the United States through Richard Willis, an arranger, composer, performer, who was appointed bandmaster of the United States Military Academy Band at West Point, New York.