[ John McClure wrote in 040522 MMDigest:


>> I am looking into several Mills Violano machines and I wonder who does
>> restorations and how available parts are for almost "basket cases".


In response to the above inquiry I would put forth the name of Terry
Haughawout.  He has a complete shop that is quite capable of restoring
all kinds of instruments but has made a specialty of the Mills Violano
machines.  He has had all kinds of parts duplicated (including the
piano plates) for the Mills machines.  He even purchased a wire looming
machine to take safe modern wiring and cover it with the correct thread
for an authentic restoration.  He sells complete wiring harnesses all
tagged for installation.

Terry has totally restored many, many Mills machines in the Sanfilippo
Collection and his work is first rate.  There is no aspect of the Mills
that he is not familiar with.  "Basket cases" do not seem to phase
Terry or his restoration staff.  He can be contacted at:

  Terry Haughawout
  Haughawout Music Company
  560 North Garfield Street
  Bloomdale, OH 44817
  tel.: 1-419-454-3671

If you contact Terry I am sure you will be pleasantly surprised by his
easy manner and professionalism.  I know of no one who has anything put
praise for his work.

Sincerely,

Robert Ridgeway, Curator
Sanfilippo Collection
Barrington Hills, Illinois