New York, New York
Slater & Martin 

Brass, German silver
ca 1871-74
Length: 35.5 in; Bell Diameter: 8 in
Wind Instruments – Brasswinds – Saxhorns

Germany silver crest-shaped shield with engraving:  Slater / & Martin, / (8-point star) / N.Y.

Around 1840, Thomas J. Dodworth, Sr., the founder of ‘Dodworth’s New York Cornet Band,’ modified the saxhorns into backward facing instruments nicknamed “back’ard blasters” for use by U.S. military bands that traditionally marched ahead of the infantry and cavalry units. These modified saxhorns called “OTS” (over-the-shoulder) were used extensively during the Civil War.

This is an ‘over the shoulder (OTS) B-flat tenor saxhorn by M. Slater & GR Martin.  It is made from brass with a German silver crest shield plate.  There are three  top-action rotary valves with string linkages.  It includes the original mouthpiece.  According to “The New Langwill Index, Moses Slater emigrated from England to New York in 1841.  Slater first partnered with S.T. Gordon as ‘Gordon & Slater in 1867-68.  Next, he partnered with Godfrey Robert Martin.  From 1868-1870 they were Martin & Slater, then from 1871-74 they were ‘Slater & Martin, which is seen on this OTS. 

Resource: “The New Langwill Index: A Dictionary of Musical Wind-Instrument Makers and Inventors.” William Waterhouse.  Tony Bingham, London. 1993., pg. 254 & 375.