Thanks to everyone who responded to my question about historic
restoration.  I appreciate everyone's interest in the subject and for
taking the time to share their thoughts.

Although I do not restore player pianos or music machines myself, I am
a history buff who enjoys learning about the ways historic objects were
used, and also about the production methods of previous generations.
We can learn just as much from these as from the objects themselves.

Those of you who restore pianos and music machines know that the
manuals, handbooks, and manufacturers' specifications don't always
contain the answers to all your questions.  Perhaps this is where
history can be of assistance.  Knowing what materials and methods were
available to the original users and/or how they intended the objects to
be used, could help answer some restoration questions.

BTW, this digest is a kind of historical document.  A big thanks to
Jody for helping keep this knowledge alive.

Joyce