istorical account from the small beginnings of 1851 to
the colossal and substantial basis upon which the music houses stand
today. The pioneer men in the business had many struggles and
obstacles to overcome. The early fires swept away the beginnings
several times, but like the fabled Phoenix they steadily arose from
the ashes of their disappointments to begin again with renewed energy
and strength of purpose.

I think I can safely say that the music house of Joseph Atwill &
Company on Washington street was the first which dealt exclusively in
musical instruments. Atwill did not import largely but bought of Mr.
A. Kohler who dealt in musical instruments, notions, fancy goods and
toys. Mr. Atwill in 1860 sold out to Matthias Gray, a former clerk of
his, and he and William Herwig in 1862 opened at 613 Clay street.
After a short time Mr. Herwig, who was a clarionet player, dropped
out. Gray's business prospered rapidly, being aided by the acquisition
of the Steinway piano agency. Gray's music store was the headquarters
for many years of all visiting artists and it may be claimed that it
was the first devoted entirely to the music art. Later two of Gray's
clerks, Charles McCurrie and Julius Weber, established a favorite home
for the music business and during some years were on Post street near
Kearny street and later on Kearny street between Sutter and Bush
streets. In the meantime Gray removed to Kearny street next to the
White House. At this location McCurrie and Weber rejoined Gray and the
business was again moved to larger quarters on Post street and
included under its roof a large second story salesroom, that was
easily converted into a recital room and was designated Steinway Hall.
A very tempting offer from the then young dry goods firm of O'Connor,
Moffatt & Co. induced Gray to give up his lease and move a block
further out Post street. Just prior to this the business was
incorporated and known as the "Matthias Gray Co." Later Mr. Gray
passed away, and still later the business was terminated. The immense
stock of music was purchased "for a song" by Oliver Ditson Co. During
its existence Gray did an extensive publishing business and became a
member of the Music Board of Trade, which then controlled prices, etc.

Charles H. McCurrie and Julius Weber were so thoroughly identified
with music as an art for many years that a word about their present
activities may be of interest. Mr. McCurrie went into Eastern piano
fac