About the Leedy Drum Company
The Leedy Manufacturing Company was one of the most innovative and influential drum manufacturers in the early 20th century. Founded by Ulysses G. Leedy in 1899, the company started in Indianapolis, Indiana, and quickly gained a reputation for high-quality drum kits and percussion accessories.
Leedy was a pioneer in drum manufacturing, being one of the first companies to mass-produce snare drums and introduce modern drum hardware innovations, such as:
- The floating head drum – a design that allowed the drumhead to be tensioned evenly.
- Adjustable snare strainers – an early innovation that paved the way for modern snare mechanisms.
- The first commercially available drum kit – helping to standardize drum sets for jazz and big band drummers.
By the 1920s and 1930s, Leedy drums were considered among the finest available, rivaling Ludwig & Ludwig, Slingerland, and Gretsch. The company was eventually acquired by Conn in 1929 and later merged with Slingerland in the 1950s. Today, vintage Leedy drums remain highly collectible, and the brand still carries historical significance among drummers and collectors.
For the full Leedy history, check out my Blogpost about the > LEEDY DRUMCOMPANY <
About the Black Elite Snaredrum
The Leedy Elite snare drum, particularly the Black Elite model, is a distinguished instrument from the early 20th century, celebrated for its exceptional craftsmanship and ornate design. Introduced in the 1920s by the Leedy Manufacturing Company, these snare drums are renowned for their distinctive black nickel-over-brass shells, often adorned with intricate hand-engraved patterns.
Design and Specifications
The Black Elite snare drums typically feature a 5×14 inch shell, though variations in size exist. The shell is constructed from brass and finished with a black nickel plating, providing both durability and a striking appearance. The hardware, including lugs and hoops, is often finished in „Nobby Gold,“ Leedy’s term for their gold-plated fittings, which complements the dark shell and enhances the drum’s visual appeal.
Engraving Patterns
A hallmark of the Black Elite snare drums is the elaborate hand-engraved patterns that adorn the shell. These engravings typically feature scrollwork and floral motifs, reflecting the Art Deco style prevalent during the era. Each drum’s engraving is unique, showcasing the artisan’s skill and adding a personalized touch to the instrument. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in these engravings contributes significantly to the drum’s aesthetic and historical value.
Strainer Mechanisms
Leedy was innovative with their strainer designs. The „Marvel“ strainer, introduced in the mid-1920s, was a parallel-type mechanism where the snares were attached to a rod extending across the drum’s diameter. This design allowed the snares to move uniformly, maintaining even tension—a concept ahead of its time. However, the Marvel strainer was short-lived, appearing only in the 1925 catalog, possibly due to its complexity or the evolving preferences of drummers.
Another notable mechanism was the „Broadway Parallel“ strainer, introduced around 1930. This design featured a system that kept the snare wires under constant tension, even when disengaged, ensuring consistent sound quality. The parallel action was facilitated by a long rod connecting both ends of the snares, allowing for simultaneous movement.
The Black Elite features different strainers. The „Presto“, „Speedway“ but also the „Marvel“ and the Parallel strainer.
Collectibility and Legacy
Today, Leedy Black Elite snare drums are highly sought after by collectors and musicians alike. Their rarity, especially in well-preserved condition, combined with their historical significance and unique sound characteristics, make them prized possessions. The combination of superior craftsmanship, innovative design, and artistic engraving ensures that the Leedy Black Elite remains a celebrated piece of percussion history.
For those interested in vintage drums, the Leedy Black Elite represents a blend of aesthetic beauty and functional innovation, encapsulating the essence of early 20th-century percussion artistry.
