Bass Drum

Bass Drum

Social & Cultural

This bass drum features one of the later revisions of “Headley” , the well known logo from Waukesha’s Fox Head brewery. The sponsorship of a community band was a long tradition for the company - one of the earliest known employee photos features two bass drums - though it was not necessarily continuous. A 1953 issue of Brewers Digest notes the formation of a Fox Head Brewery band, and this drum likely dates to that ensemble. The band appeared in area parades, gave concerts in Cutler Park, and made special appearances, under the direction of longtime Waukesha musician Fred Sperl. Sperl was director of the American Legion Band for 25 years, the Oconomowoc Legion Band for 11 years, and the Weber Brewery Band beginning in 1952.
Waukesha had long encouraged local marching and concert bands. Many of the Springs sponsored dances and hosted smaller brass or string ensembles to play for patrons during the summer months. The strong oratory, theater, and music programs at Carroll College also helped inspire and train residents. In 1947, Carroll College President Nelson Vance Russell founded the Waukesha Symphony Orchestra, now the Wisconsin Philharmonic.
Local and amateur bands continue today, with Waukesha’s Friday Night Live keeping the spirit of community music alive every summer.

Donor: Dick & Dorothy Kuster

Adopt and Artifact Sponsor: Shawn Carstens

Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum

1950’s

Waukesha County Historical Society & Museum