[Watson]

I have been asked by a family member to find out about a piano that has been in the family for approximately 80-100 years, maybe more. The only information I have about it is that it has the name Kelsall on it and is a baby grand. Sorry for the lack of information, but searching for Kelsall on the Internet has not returned any evidence that this make exists. I would be extremely grateful of any help, Regards, David Watson

[Bill Kibby]

I have nothing on computer about Kelsall pianos, so I imagine it was an alias, but I'll let you know if anything turns up.
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue wood-frame pianos in the UK.

My own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Email Bill@PianoGen.org

Piano History Centre

[Watson]

My uncle made a mistake and the correct make of the piano is "Kessels". All we are sure of is it was bought second hand about 55 years ago. Sorry for the lack of information but maybe this correct name may prove more helpful!

Thanks again,

David Watson

[Bill Kibby]

I have very little information ready on computer about Kessels, but they were around in 1938. I'll let you know if I can find anything...
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue wood-frame pianos in the UK.

My own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Email Bill@PianoGen.org

Piano History Centre

[Watson]

After a bit of trawling around the net I've found that Leswein Pianos made pianos under the name of Kessels (from www.pianos.co.uk). The piano has HM 2968 on it, and although this doesn't yield any information on http://www.pianos.co.uk/info/pianos/l/leswein.php, the number 2968 does. It says the year of manufacture is "1925 of eerder". Hope this helps.

Thank you for you help so far,

David Watson

[Bill Kibby]

Yes, but do you know who made Leswein? In about 1905, Renn were taken over by Brooks Ltd., who made piano actions, then they used the name Leswein. They also used various other aliases.
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue wood-frame pianos in the UK.

My own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Email Bill@PianoGen.org

Piano History Centre

[Simon Fox]

Hi, Although this is not much help as I too am looking for a lead on Kessels Pianos as My Grandfather used to build them. in the early part of the last century. Kessels I think (according to my Father who has passed away)were based in Hornsey North London. My Father used to tell me stories of the factory and the house that Kessels provided for them to live in whilst my Grandfather worked there. There is a Kessels Piano with my Granfathers name written on it out there somewhere Last name Fox...it would be wonderful if I found it.

I understand Kessels Pianos was caught up in the Blitz of the second world war and ceased trading as a result. My Grandfather worked there in a senior position (Director level I think) around 1920's but cant be absolutley certain of this date as it could be 5 years either side. I am very anxious to find out more too as there are no relatives left on my fathers side sadly.

I would really love a pic of the piano as I have only ever heard about them from my father but never seen one.

Kind Regards

Simon

[Bill Kibby]

If you would like to email me, I have a little information, and a copy of a 1938 ad.
_________________
I do not buy, sell or value pianos, but I sometimes rescue wood-frame pianos in the UK.

My own website: http://www.pianogen.org

Email Bill@PianoGen.org

Piano History Centre

[Grenache]

If Simon Fox is still contactable via this forum, I have some photos, and could let him have my Kessels, if he wants.