Rare Deagan Una-Fon (or Unifon) Circus Carnival Musical Percussion Instrument

Description

LOCAL PICKUP ONLY (or see below)
This Deagan “Unifon” (or Una Fon) was manufactured in Chicago. It is in unrestored and original condition. Overall measurements of the rack with bars are 28.75” t. x 36.25” x 17”.
This relic from the ballyhoo day of the circus and traveling carnival consists of 25 reiterating metal bars, hand-played from a remote keyboard with a 24’ cable. You might say that it is the equivalent of a giant, portable glockenspiel.
All 25 bars, resonator, and electric reiterating beater are operable and mounted on the original stand. The 25 notes play from F to F. Compass of the keyboard is F – C (32 notes). Top 7 notes double back down to complete the 32-note scale.
A great opportunity for the discerning collector to do a complete historical restoration.
This machine is playable now, but the keyboard has some dead notes. All 25 beater units are operable and show continuity.
The electrical source is a newer Astron 110V input 10-12V DC5 amp output.
An advertisement reprinted on the web site immortalephemera.com/8519/the-deagan-una-fon might interest prospective buyers. It advertises Charlie Chaplin in “The Kid,” and also demonstrates one way to attract attention with this musical novelty. During the early 20
th
century, you might hear one of these being played somewhere on the Midway, and then head in that direction (as intended) to learn the source of the unique sound.
Here is a video clip that gives you an idea of the sound:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zk-Ubxrqu7s
And here is a “duet” between a Uni-Fon and a theatre organ, both playing a well-known 1970s song: facebook.com/watch/?v=2579056375675793.
Should the buyer require crating and shipping, I would be happy to deliver the instrument to the Cleveland-area shipper of your choice. But the buyer would need to work directly with the shipper, including payment of costs involved,
after
completing the purchase.
Located in Lakewood, Ohio on the west side of Cleveland. Buyer must remove the instrument no later than August 30, 2021. If you wish to have the table too, it can go with the instrument. (Or not, as you prefer.)