This is quite an interesting bagpipe with a bit of known history and, of course, a lot of unknown history. They recently surfaced in Arizona, about to be thrown out with the garbage! The story was that this particular gentleman had acquired them from the daughter of a man named Betancourt. Apparently this Betancourt was accomplished at several instruments and had last played this bagpipe at the World’s Fair in 1896.
Sadly, this is all that remains of the pipes and their history. Over the years I have learned not to rush to judgement and to accept whatever clues the bagpipe provides. There are several things here that are noteworthy. First of all, the wood is cocuswood, which we know was an import item as early as 1655 following the capture of Jamaica from Spain. It can be found in furniture inlay from this period. I do not know when it first gained favor in the manufacture of woodwind instruments, however it is likely that early flute makers first discovered its superiority. We know that is was a requested wood for Highland Bagpipes as early at 1748. Certainly by the early 1800’s it was highly regarded and in great demand.
None of the tenons nor bushing seats are threaded. This speaks to manufacturing practices at that time. Also, the bells (inside) are crudely shaped. Although the overall workmanship is excellent, this is interesting. Lastly, the profile of the projecting mounts is very interesting with the small scallop at the bottom of the mount. This would later appear on MacDougall and Thow bagpipes.
