Pedler Company

The Pedler Company is located at 430 Baldwin Street. Harry Pedler, Senior, born in London, England, apprenticed as a clarinet maker until he became a master of the craft. William Gronert, also a native of London, was an employee of Conn in Elkhart. Gronert, while visiting relatives in London, met Pedler. Gronert was impressed with Pedler’s skills and persuaded him to go to Elkhart. Pedler accepted the offer to come to the United States, also becoming an employee of Conn. Until World War I, the United States heavily depended upon French-made clarinets. During this time, imports from Europe nearly stopped due to factories converting their resources and manpower to support the war effort. This event created a large need for clarinet production. Pedler, recognizing the opportunity, founded Harry Pedler and Company, which existed from 1916 to 1930 until it was sold to Martin Company.

Selmer Company is located at 1119 North Main street. From Pedler on Baldwin Street, turn north on Cassopolis Street and left on Simonton Avenue. Selmer is located at 1119 Main Street, on the southwest corner of Main Street and Simonton Avenue.