J.C. Deagan Inc. (Chicago, Illinois)

Deagan Shaker Chimes (originally named "Deagan Organ Chimes" but having nothing to do with an organ) were hand-played instruments designed for vaudeville use. An early 1900s Deagan catalog said they were "universally conceded as being the greatest novelty instrument ever invented." For each note, the player shakes the appropriate handle rapidly, causing four tuned steel tubes to strike against a wooden frame at the bottom. Shaker chimes, again in the words of the catalog, "have a marvellously rich quadruple tone very similar to a grand Pipe Organ, but of a clearer and more bell like quality."

The 27 sets of tubes hang from a large frame in two rows, like the white and black notes of a keyboard, so anyone familiar with a piano or organ can learn to play them. This example is in extraordinarily original condition and even includes a rare original shipping box. 52x87x12 inches.