[Postcard portrait of Sherman's Military Band, Burlington, Vt.]

Llewellyn Collection of Vermont History

Published Materials

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Identifier

2010.1.1496

Date

1910 (Circa Date)

Object Type

Postcards

Dimensions

13.8cm (W) 8.5cm (H)

Material

Photograph

Notes

This band of amateur musicians has performed regularly in Burlington since 1851, when it was established as the Burlington Cornet Band. From 1869 to at least 1919, it was directed by composer George Dallas Sherman and known as Sherman's Military Band. The then-famous ensemble gave performances throughout the United States, including in Burlington's City Hall Park. Now called the Burlington Concert Band, the group performs each summer at Battery Park. The term "military band" resonated with audiences in the years following the American Civil War and made reference to the brass and percussion instruments used in the military. Band members' military-style uniforms reflected this connection. According to the Burlington Free Press of December 25, 1919, the original uniform of the late 1860s "was a handsome affair with blue cutaway coat, gold-plated buttons and cords, epaulets, and gold cord with elaborate caps. The trousers were of light blue." - Erica Donnis, Special Collections Director, March 2020

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