The talking machine world (Jan-June 1919)

May 15, 1919 THE TALKING MACHINE WORLD 51 The Trade In Boston And New England JOHN H. WILSON, MANAGER, 324 WASHINGTON STREET, BOSTON, MASS. Boston, ^Iass., May 2.— The Fifth Liberty Loan has the call in this city and New England at this writing. Never behind in offering its money for the use of the Government the local trade again is to the fore, and by the time the period for subscriptions has expired the talking machine business will have been found to maintain its high prestige as a liberal supporter of the war and all that is associated with it. Decorated for the Soldiers The return of the Twenty-sixth Division was made much of in Boston and the representatives of the trade, especially along the route of the parade — the like of which has never been seen before — quite outdid themselves in the way of decoration. Such houses as M. Steinert & Sons, the Oliver Ditson Co., Chickering & Sons, C. C. Karvey, Hallet & Davis, the Aeolian, A. M. Hume Co. and others made more or less elaborate displays. Their employes had an excellent chance to view the parade, and there was more than ordinary interest as in the line of march were several boys — employes of the various houses. Review of Trade Conditions The telephone strike proved exceedingly inconvenient to the talking machine houses, for there is a large amount of business done by 'phone call. The strike lasted six days, and during that time business fell off considerably in some places, although as was to be expected there was a heavier mail during that period. There was a sigh of relief when the strikers returned to work. Business for April was unusually good on the whole, and there is a general feeling throughout the trade that from now on the improvement will be rapid. One thing is particularly noticeable: that with the announcement of new records there is an extreme ly sudden demand, and first consignments are quickly exhausted. Columbia Dealers Meet There was a well-attended meeting of Columbia dealers at the Copley-Plaza a while ago, and again was it demonstrated that the grill room in the basement of the hotel is an admirable place for a talk and demonstration, such as these periodic conferences are. Manager Fred E. Mann presided in his usual affable, easy manner, and his gracious introduction of George W. Hopkins, the company's general sales manager, and Miss Amparito Farrar, soprano, left no doubt in the minds of the dealers that he is an apt, impromptu speaker, who can when circumstances require it, sit down and play the accompaniments for any singer that may happen along. Mr. Hopkins gave a snappy talk, one that was chock full of live informing matter which dealers could absorb with profit to themselves. Miss Farrar, who made a distinct impression through a pleasing personality as well as the possession of a beautiful voice, sang several of the numbers which she has recorded for the Columbia, and the dealers got a good idea of what they may anticipate for good sellers later. The evening was an altogether delightful one, one of the best, in fact, that have been held under Manager Mann's supervision this winter and spring. Expansion of Pathe Trade The Pathe line carried here by Hallet & Davis Co. is making commendable strides in the New England and neighboring territories, but Manager R. O. Ainslie is finding it difficult to fill the demand. There are many talking machine dealers who are anxious to take on this line, but in view of the scarcity of goods Manager Ainslie has hesitated until he can see his way clearly ahead. He has been over in New York several times lately in an endeavor to get larger shipments of machines so that he can cover the field more effectually. Within the past few weeks the only new dealer signed up is F. S. Greene, of Westerly, R. L, who is developing a good business with the Pathe. The record business has been keeping pace with the machines, and all the latest hits are being eagerly purchased and in large quantities. Manager Ainslie has considerably rearranged his Pathe department on the fourth floor of the Hallet & Davis Boylston street headquarters, which gives him a large space for records. Rejoins the Columbia Co. Timothy Hayes, who was mentioned last month as having gone to one of the retail shops following his discharge from service, remained there only a few weeks, and is now back with his first love, the Columbia Co., at its Federal street wholesale quarters, where he is now head bookkeeper. Mr. Hayes is familiar with both the wholesale and retail ends of the Columbia proposition. To Develop Foreign Record Trade J. C. Stone, an Armenian, has been engaged by the Eastern Talking Machine Co., and will devote his attention to the foreign record department. The young man speaks five languages, and it is believed he will prove a valuable acquisition to General Manager Shoemaker's forces. New Emerson Agencies The Emerson Gold Seal records are having a big sale from the headquarters of the Emerson New England, which is now well located in its new quarters in Essex street. Manager Oscar W. Ray has a well-appointed private office, but (Continued on page 52) PROGRESSIVENESS — the New England Spirit "New England Service for New England Dealers" The dominant thought of our present organization is not only to arrange and equip our new wholesale quarters for the most efficient handling of Victor Products but to render you genuine service and real co-operation in the upbuilding of your business. Eastern Talking Machine Co. Victor Wholesalers 85 Essex Street BOSTON