First off - I've also posted this on drumforum so excuse the redundancy for those of you who visit both boards. That being said, I wanted to share this with those of you who haven't already seen it...

I've recently befriended a crusty old retired drummer, who invited me over to take a look at "a couple of old drums" that he's had stowed away in his closet for decades. Obviously, the anticipation had my imagination in overdrive, but even my wildest dreams couldn't have prepared me for the treasures he was to share with me.

First he shows me the Leedy Dreadnaught, WWII era floor tom - rock maple lugs and hoop, tacked on bottom head, missing legs but in otherwise good condition. Would these legs have been wood also? I'm guessing so but would appreciate anyone chiming in that is knowledgable about these drums. Anyway, I thought this to be a neat drum and worth the trip in itself.

Then he proceeds to take a dirty canvas bag out of his closet, out of which he takes this snare drum! It was quite difficult to maintain my composure, but I told him in as calm a voice as I could muster, that I thought it to be a real cool drum that deserved to be cleaned up, and that it was a shame that it hadn't seen the light of day in over 40 years!

A few weeks later, and the drums are mine - for the cool sum of $1000!!!! Mike C has informed me that the engraving pattern dates this drum to 1929. The drum is missing 2 snare gaurd clips, and has been modified with the addition of a 1930s drum muffler. While not perfect, I'm quite pleased with the acquisition. Obviously, it is in need of a restoration. If done properly, this would include stripping and re-lacquering. As I've got no experience in doing so, I'll probably leave it to a professional. Mike C has provided me some before and after pics of similar drums that he's had done, and the transition is absolutley amazing.

A big thank you to Mike for providing his expertise and advise!