An undated photograph of the first Gratz Band, Gratz, Dauphin County, Pennsylvania. The band was organized in 1892 and played at the Gratz Fair every year during the band’s existence. It also played regularly in parades throughout the area.
Clayton H. Williard, local historian, wrote that the band was “very much liked for their musical ability for tone, time, volume and melody.”
The leader of the band was Clarence U. Kratzer. Other members were: Jacob Smeltz; Rufus F. Willier, clarinet; Uriah Daniel, clarinet; Morris Zerfing, piccolo; Jacob Witmer, alto; Homer Blyler; Charles M. Blyler; Daniel Blyler; John Good; Daniel Kissinger, tenor horns; Henry Kreiser, drum; Jonathan Clark, snare drums; Arthur Blyler, etc.
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