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I just added a Columbia Type A cylinder phonograph to my already too big collection. (big per my wife) I am mainly an Edison collector but bought this machine for a fairly decent (I think) price. I am interested in the historical background of this machine - mainly the years it was manufactured, cost, etc. Does Type A stand for a "first model" or is it just a standard model letter/number in a series of Columbia phonographs? It seems very early compared to my Edisons. Thanks. Brian Keith

Brian,
I recall seeing that machine on Ebay.I believe the Madel A was made from 1896-8. The earliest one were made in 1896 and the were made in Washington DC. The metal ID plate would say it. Also the banner decal would say Washington DC.On the carriage there would be hand painted berries instead of the flowers. Check out Eric Reiss's book, it shows the comparison. They originally sold for $25.00. Your machine is the later New York version from 1897-8. The reproducer is a later one like you would see on late Model Q. I, too have a model A and the are good little machines. Enjoy yours.
Harvey Kravitz

Thanks Harvey for that information! Yes, I just bought this machine on EBay as a treat to myself, but I think I paid a little too much for it ($412.00) as there were only four other bidders bidding for it. Like I said, I am more of an Edison guy but I have taken a liking to the Columbia cylinder models as well as the "off-brand" machines like my little Ecco. Brian Keith

Brian,

Harvey has given you all the basic background information on the Type A. I would only point out that none of the Graphophones were made in Washington D.C. - - that was only the location of Columbia's corporate offices until January 1, 1897. Manufacturing took place in Bridgeport, Conn.

The Type A was predated by several models, but it was the first to sell for under $40.00 (the price of the Type N). $25.00 was considered a popular price at the time, and many Type As were sold. There are several variations of the Type A relative to decals, number of mainsprings, and original reproducer equipment. The last of the Type As were sold by Sears, Roebuck in 1900-1901.

I have a special affection for this model Graphophone. And if you think you paid too much for yours, just try to purchase any other talking machine from 1897 (other than an "Eagle") for that little!

I wrote an article on Type A Graphophones a few years ago for The Sound Box. Here it is...

George P.

George Paul
Brilliant!! Many thanks for that information. I am interested in having another look at the one I have.
I have also printed off your article and will keep it with the machine.
I really appreciate the information that you list it is fantastic for all of the small collectors like me!
All the best
Tony

You're very welcome, Tony!

George P.

A big big thanks George! PS: That looks like a modified bird cage floor-hoop stand in your phonograph. I shortened a vintage nickel bird cage floor stand-hoop I purchased at a flea market several years back, and I use it to support a very lage horn (42") I have attached to my square box Edison Home Banner model. It looks really cool! I only cut the pole of the stand down by about 18" and had the stand & the hoop re-plated. Brian Keith

briankeith wrote: That looks like a modified bird cage floor-hoop stand in your phonograph.

Actually, the horn support shown in the article is an original Hawthorne & Sheble. Although they seldom turn up, there were a number of circular or "full ring" supports available at the time.

Glad you enjoyed the article!

George P.

briankeith wrote:but I think I paid a little too much for it ($412.00)

You got a fair deal. I would have paid it.

Thank again George, I did not realize it was an original Hawthorne & Sheble! But I admit the birdcage hoop works and looks great with a little modification! And you can find them pretty cheap at flea markets.