HRENOLA

[HuntsItAll]

Thanks Curt, that is so interesting. I found a park that appears to have been named after him (Frank Hren) in Morton Grove ILL (suburb of Chicago). I just contacted the Morton Grove Historic Society and gave them all the information in hopes that they may know more on this person. I'll keep you up to date on what I find out.

[Curt A]

I found that park also, but am inclined to think that the Frank Hren the park is named after is of a different generation... maybe son, grandson or not related. Let us know what you find out...

[Victrolacollector]

Welcome to the forum!!!

That is a beautiful machine. I must say that this is the part of collecting that really makes it fun. These independent small name companies are very interesting, and there is a lot of history to be learned from some of the makers of these machines.

I have a interest in these Chicago brand machines. Being a owner of a Magnola Talking Machine, which is also a independent brand machine made in Chicago, it got me looking around to find out more about the company, its location and owners etc. I found out that Magnola was headquartered out at 711 N. Milwaukee, and it is still a nice old building. The company was a part of the Shultz Piano Co., there was also a Color Catalog put out by Magnola (and I was able to purchase an original several years ago). Another reason I enjoy these machines from Chicago, is that I live in NW Indiana, just 30 miles from the City, so Chicago is close to home.

Your Hrenola seems to have a lot of history as well. Check around look up the Talking Machine World, you may also find dealer ads and some news articles on your machine. Now this has me on a mission to see what I can find out about this machine and its history.

BTW, as other members have pointed out, it would be a good idea to have your reproducer rebuilt, they have some old gaskets that make them sound kind of tin can etc. Having the gaskets replaced makes them sound great!

[HuntsItAll]

Thanks for all the advice guys, I really appreciate it. I have to say it has been a blast researching this machine. I find so much beauty in these. My first piece was a 1926 Victor Victrola Orthophonic VV 4-7. It was literally in pieces and needing quite a bit of work but for $50 I didn't want to pass it up. I still have lots to learn so I'll take all the advice and knowledge you can give me.