The music box originated in
Europe in the 18th century. The industry grew rapidly in
Europe and America through the 19th century, but by the
early 20th century was replaced by new inventions such as
the phonograph and nickelodeon, which could reproduce both music and
speech. Mira music boxes were probably not produced after 1910.
Among our 36 discs (which can
still be played) are such tune titles as “In the Shade of the Old
Apple Tree”, by H. VanAlstine (disc # 1063). Come in and march to
G.M.Cohan’s “You’re a Grand Old Flag” or waltz to G.Edwards’ “In My
Merry Oldsmobile”.
The music box with discs was a
1979 gift to Clinton County Historical Museum by Anna Mae Brooks of
Plattsburgh.
