A legend returns…The Martin Brasswind Company originally known as, The Martin Band Instrument Company, is back in business!
I had a hope that one day this business would return back to its roots. As a child I, born and raised in Elkhart, Indiana, my dad would take me by the old factory building where I could still read the old painted sign “The Martin Band Instrument Co.” beaten and battered by the elements of the weather.
My great-great grandfather and founder of the Martin Band Instrument Company, John Henry Martin, tragically lost his business in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. He and his family walked to Elkhart, Indiana, and eventually reestablished the business; this time with my great grandfather, Henry Charles Martin, as President of the Company. Over time, O.P. Bassett acquired controlling interest and assumed active management.
Following the death of Bassett in 1931, Sales Manager, Fred A. Holtz was made President and General Manager, and played a major role in boosting the volume of business for the Martin Band Instrument Company. Other companies such as Wurlitzer, Leblanc, and Conn Selmer, all had part in ownership of the Martin Company over its existence. What a great contribution these companies have made throughout our country and the world, for building world class instruments.
I remember when I was a child, my dad would tell me stories about the time my great grandfather, Henry Charles Martin, would lift my dad up to pull the switch to send power to the machines. Of course, as a child he thought that was the coolest thing ever. Another story was when my great granddad lost his temper and threw a trumpet across the factory. This is somewhat embarrassing but real. I’m sure that this journey of more than 150 years of business has had some trying times but there have been many rewarding moments as well.
Since 1852, the spirit of music has been passed down from generation to generation and after spending much time in prayer concerning this business, The Martin Brasswind Company is finally back where it belongs … in the original Martin family. I want to say thank you, to the Lord Jesus Christ for all that he is, and all that he has done in directing my steps. I also want to say WELCOME HOME to the Martin Brasswind Company.
Sincerely,
Richard Martin – Owner