This photograph of the Aschbacker’s High School Band was taken on May 30, 1907 in Oak Harbor by photographer George Smith. It was taken to document the band’s first public appearance in uniform. In November 1906, the band was formed by Professor George F. Aschbacker. However, the band dissolved June 1, 1909 when Professor Aschbacker moved away.
Interestingly, when the band was formed, only three of the members knew how to play an instrument.
Standing left to right are Arthur Holdgraf-bass horn, George Thierwechter-French horn, Lester Fought-slide trombone, Irvin Ellsworth-cornet, Arthur Zipfel-alto, Edgar Kolath-bass drum, Professor George F. Aschbacker- leader, William Bisch-alto, Ray Burton-baritone, Clifton Frye-clarinet, William Marks-cornet, Wesley Bredbeck-French horn, and Albert Roose-French horn. Kneeling are Harold Ellsworth-valve trombone, Leon Beier-valve trombone, Donald Thierwechter-cornet, Grayson Gill-snare drum, Leonard Von Thron-cornet, Harry Foreman-cornet, and Lewis Heller-piccolo.
Area museums and libraries have been invited to submit photographs for History Spotlight.
The News-Messenger/News Herald
This article originally appeared on Fremont News-Messenger: History Spotlight eyes Oak Harbor history
Reporting by USA Today Network / Fremont News-Messenger
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