Horn-u-Copia's Display of Makers

Since 1836, the Kruspe family has been making instruments (PREDIGER-strasse 13 and then DABERSTEDTER-strasse (now SCHILLER-Strasse]) Family names include: Franz Carl, Johan Edward, Carl, Walkter, Fritz, Freidrich Wilhelm. Kruspes manufactory in the beginning made flutes and clarinets. Trademark Eagle, later a lyre over a six spoked wheel.

The first workshop of (Franz) Carl Kruspe started i 1836, taught his two sons Friedrich Willhelm who specialized in woodwinds and Eduard who specialized in brass. Friedrich was the successor to his father, and to further confuse the record, Freirich named his son Eduard. His shop was bought by Huller in 1920.

Eduard Kruspe, the brass specializing son established his workshop and was the successor to Zielsdorf in 1864. And, was succeeded by his son Fritz in 1893.

The following time line may be a mix of the two companies.

In 1875-80 the trademark was changed to a butterfly and CK mongram.

1896 built the first true double horn.

The firm was purchased by Huller in 1920.

After WW II, at least some fo the assets of the Kruespe shop was consolidated in Markneukirchen.

Later sells Mr. Schneider to Mr. Heldmann.

1956-1973 - During the difficult years of the GDR, there was only one master craftsman in the shop - the owner, Mr. Schneider.

About 5 years ago, the current owner Heldman, moved the factory from Erfurt to to WUTHA-FARNRODA near Eisenach and Wartburg (of Tannhauser fame).

The brass factory is still active today, with 5-10 workers building fine French horns and trombones.

Kruspe seems to have went defunct 31 Dec 2011 according to their Website.

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