McPherson's 20th Century Band
The second person from the left, top row, is Albert Blome, and the fourth person from the left, top row, is John W. McPherson, the leader of the band. If you recognize any of the other band members, please let us know so we can label their picture.
Submitted by Brian McGauley
For a closer look, click on the picture.
This band, organized around the turn of the century, was known as the 20th Century Band and was comprised of high school and grade school students. It was organized by a well-known clarinetist, John W. McPherson. Its first official appearance was at a high school track meet at Lincoln, Illinois. Professor E. B. Bentley was Superintendent of the Schools at that time and was instrumental in taking the band to the meet. After about three years the 20th Century Band was dissolved as some of the members moved or went to college. The others joined the old municipal band.
Excerpt from Clinton 1835-1985, DeWitt County 1839-1985, Illinois, page 20.