A calliope is a musical instrument that produces its sound by sending air...(More)

A calliope is a musical instrument that produces its sound by sending air through a series of tuned whistles. Based on the train whistle invented for early locomotives, the calliope was an entertainment fixture on 19th century riverboats and in traveling circuses, which often advertised their arrival by parading a brightly decorated horse-drawn wagon through town, its instrument playing a blaring tune that could often be heard for miles. Patented in 1855, the calliope was originally operated by a music-box-style cylinder and later with a keyboard. Eventually it was also adapted to run like a player piano using music rolls. In the early 1900s compressed air began to replace steam as the instrument's power source. The pickup truck replaced the circus' horse-drawn wagon with the advent of the horseless carriage, and this 1950 Chevrolet half-ton is a delightful reminder of the magical quaintness of those earlier times. A basic yet colorful machine, the truck and its calliope have been completely restored to typical period finery. Brilliant Fire Engine Red paint adorns both truck and instrument, the latter topped with a glorious cropping of polished brass stacks. Played automatically or with its keyboard, the calliope's beautiful music calls the attention of all within earshot, which is quite a distance, making it perfect for issuing a call to your event or for entertaining in a parade. Highlights - Restored Red 1/2 ton with real brass whistle Calliope - Beautiful music calls the attention of all around - Calliope plays automatically or by keyboard - Trucks with a Circus Calliope were used for advertising in years past - Perfect for attention today - Rust free - Great for your business in parades, etc. or just for fun - 54,172 actual miles - 3-speed manual transmission - 6 cylinder engine(Less)