Antique Car Serpentine Horn

Forgotten Instruments: Exploring the Antique Car Horn

A Symphony of Sound from the Roaring Twenties

In the bustling streets of the early 20th century, a cacophony of melodies painted the airwaves with the honking of antique car horns. These forgotten instruments, once an integral part of automotive culture, now evoke a sense of nostalgia and intrigue, beckoning us to rediscover their fascinating history.

The Serpent: A Low-Pitched Pioneer

Among the most intriguing antique car horns is the serpent, a wind instrument crafted from brass and shaped like a snake. Developed during the Renaissance, the serpent served as an early predecessor to the trombone, producing a rich and resonant low pitch. Despite its formidable appearance, the serpent was a surprisingly versatile instrument, used in both sacred and secular music.

A Whistle from a Bygone Era

Another notable artifact from the era of antique car horns is the 1918 Buell Auto Truck Spark Plug Explosion Whistle. This unique whistle, crafted from an actual spark plug, emits a loud and distinctive blast. Its origins are shrouded in mystery, but it likely found use as a warning device on early commercial vehicles.