I bought this 15 x 3 snare drum at a flea market for $22.50 CAN in the late 90's. It's a project. But before I start on it I need some help identifying it.

Here's stuff I know for sure:

-15 x 3 shell 3 ply

-maple hoops

-maple reinforcing hoops

-one vent hole 1/2"

-snare beds 3/16" deep!

-signed in pencil by "CWK 26/3/26", "CWK 28/5/26" and "Eli White July 1 1936"

-10 brass tension rods. Threaded clamps are open at the end UNLIKE Leedy drums which to my knowledge are closed (see picture below)

-curiously, 10 tacks evenly spaced around drum (hmmm Mod perhaps?)

-snare wires are string with wire wrapped around them

-calfskin head stamped in the shape of a cow with what looks like "Ludwig Whit..." or something and US below it. (see picture below)

Stuff I don't know:

-walnut wood? or mahogany? or.......??

-chrome over brass or nickel?

-manufacturer?

-what the heck did they finish this thing with? It melts in the heat!

-how should I refinish this drum? stain or other?

-should I use a heat gun or stripper? Does it matter?Help

WOW! Alot of info and questions here but all advice is welcome. I'm interested to hear what this thing sounds like!

Thanks in advance.