-- forwarded message, please reply to sender and MMD --

> I have a small hand-held instrument that plays paper punched rolls
> while you breathe into it and turn a small crank.  It sounds like
> a harmonica.  It is in its original box with 6 rolls.  The name on
> it is PlaRola Organ mfd by PlaRola Corporation Easton MD.
>
> Do you have any information on the age and worth of this instrument?
> Any information would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you
>
> Helen Ashley
> Reedy, WV
> helenfromreedy@webtv.net.geentroep [ drop .geentroep to reply ]

The PlaRola Organette was made in Easton, MD in the 1930's. The
gentleman that made them and held the patent was Harry Pullen. He made
another similar instrument named the Fireside Player, but this
instrument does not list a city of manufacture, but it does have the
patent number issued to Harry Pullen. I have been trying to obtain
further information about the company, but Harry's children have moved
away from the Eastern Shore to places unknown.

Recently a PlaRola with three rolls sold on ebay auction for $203.50.

I hope this information helps.
Ed Schmidt
Easton, MD