Also notice the bass drum rims has rope holes and is tacked together. I believe the bass drum has been converted from a rope drum?

I think the hoop is probable steam bent, that would explain the destroyed pulp. It may go back earlier. I`ve done tons of Boston homes from the Revolutionary to the Civil War with water damaged pulp like this and after 100+ years the results are the same with the .."raised grain" affect.

Thanks didn't know that ! It's a great drum.

Thanks Guys!

I have some thoughts from a field drum expert. He is saying that he believes the drum and hoops are pre 1860, mostly because of the tacked seam from being steambent. The glues back then were not strong enough to hold. And also because of the rope tension holes that have been drilled on an angle. He believes someone has added the lugs that are early 20th century.

Oddball,

I can only get a small shot inside the drum, as I hesitate to take a skin off at this point. If it would give some definite answers, I might attempt it.

I can tell you that the nuts holding the lugs on are square, not 6 pointed like modern ones. Its also 32" x 11". A very large drum to display anywhere. Maybe I ill find a wall for it. lol.

Thanks for the thoughts so far guys!