Sounds like you have a Super Classic model, being a 5x14 with the classic strainer (the large strainer in which the wires attach like you mentioned). The Jazz Festival didn't technically come out until '59 or '60. It was called a Barrett Deems model prior to that. But it does not utilize the classic strainer.

Mike

Here is my 1961 Super Classic snare drum, complete with P87 strainer, P32 butt, original Ludwig wires and original COB hoops. Shell size is 5.5 x 14. I believe this is the drum you are talking about?

-Mark

Thank you for your reply. Your photos are close to my drum, but not the same. My badge is WFL Drum Company, no serial number, and the butt plate also is engraved WFL. My dating of the drum is therefore based on what I guess I know about the era of WFL and the seller's notes I suppose. The only marking inside the drum is a chalk "14".

Yes, there are some differences, but, technically, the same drum. I believe your shell should also be 5.5" deep? My "Ludwig" badge is also pre-serial. Even though the butt on mine says "Ludwig", the P87 strainer is still engraved with "WFL". Do you still have the original wires on your drum? If so, treat them like gold, because there are no replacement wires available! While my drum does have the original wires, I also have a set NOS, uber-rare, Puresound PLS-1416 wires.

Post some pictures if you can.

-Mark

You were right, 5.5". I am embarassed I did not measure the shell right. Original wires I think yes and I quickly upon purchase bought a backup strand on eBay.

Spare/backup snare wires = Puresound vintage 14" 16 strands! Glad I bought them when I could.

Great looking Super Classic! I had a feeling it was a 5.5" depth. No worries about not measuring correctly! When did you purchase your drum and extra Puresound wires? I'm guessing not recently? I haven't seen the Puresound wires being offered for a very long time. Do they look like the wires I show here? I didn't take a picture of the back, but it does say PLS-1416.

-Mark

Drum purchased in 2012 and also purchased the identical snares same year, plus a backup strainer because, like you said, I expected parts to become more rare over time. Again, thanks for sharing your knowledge and we don't get hung up about WFL vs. Ludwig per se.