Much of the following information was provided by Tri-Counties Genealogy & History by Joyce M. Tice. To view the complete article about the Doylemarx story which includes bios and rare photos, please visit this link: http://www.joycetice.com/business/doylemarx.htm
Mr. D. S. Andrus originally established himself as a musical instrument retailer in 1860 in Williamsport, PA. Mr. Andrus enjoyed great success, ultimately expanding and moving the firm to Elmira, NY. Mr. D. S. Andrus died in 1883 at which time his heirs took control of the firm and reorganized as “D. S. Andrus & Company”. Mr. Doyle Marks gained control of the firm shortly after the turn-of-the-century.
In 1904, Mr. Doyle Marks introduced a line of pianos built to his own specifications and designed to meet the need for a quality instrument at a low cost. With it came the trade name “Doylemarx“. The pianos, both uprights and grands, were manufactured in New York City, under the supervision of Julius Winter, and were distributed from Elmira throughout the country. In 1914, the firm’s name was officially changed from “D. S. Andrus & Company” to “M. Doyle Marks Company”.
From 1904 until 1930 when Mr. Winter died and production was discontinued, thousands of Doylemarx pianos were sold in forty-four states. Even today, a large number of these pianos are still in daily use and in high favor.
Can you find your instrument listed in these antique catalogs?