Last week I took a trip to Knott's Berry Farm.  To my surprise I found
some remnants of the mechanical music machines I enjoyed there years
ago.  Among the display-only pieces were a tabletop Swiss music box and
monkey organ, with little information on their history.  The National
roll-changing piano was in fairly good shape, and several people
dropped a coin or two in its slot.

In not-so-good of shape was a Mills Violano.  It pitifully tried to
play through a tune, with the violin occasionally playing one or two
strings.  In another building I found the large barrel organ.  It
played very weakly.  Other small cabinet pianos could be found
throughout the park, but I didn't have a chance to listen to them.
As many people already know, the carousel no longer has the Wurlitzer
153 band organ.  I don't recall if the 157 is still above the carousel
entrance (I forgot to look!).

In the search to find ways to preserve the future of mechanical music,
it's important to upkeep the few machines on public display.  Thousands
of people flock to amusement parks like Knott's.  Who knows -- some of
them may be inspired to become enthusiasts, if the machines are in
proper working order.

Sharon Marie