Edison Cylinder Player and Records of the Great War

Edison Cylinder Player and Records of the Great War

Because this Edison player features both 2- and 4-minute settings, it can be dated to sometime after 1909. Pre-recorded cylinder records were available beginning in the late 1880s but were at the height of their popularity from 1900 - 1915. After this, many companies dropped cylinder music in favor of recorded discs. Beginning in 1915, new Edison cylinder issues were simply dubs of Edison discs and therefore had lower audio quality than the disc originals.

"Knit Knit Knit Sister Sue," "Over There," and "It's a Long Way to Tipperary" are examples of the patriotic soldiering songs that were a staple of the market.