INTERNAL HEATERS
From the 1920’s through the early 1960’s calf skin heads were used on most drums. Because these heads were subject to changes in humidity, this posed a problem for most drummers. When the humidity was high, calf skin heads tended to become loose and unplayable. During periods of low humidity and higher temperatures, the heads would become quite tight. To maintain a consistent tension, internal electric heaters were often used. The heaters were mounted on the drum shell and plugged into an electric outlet or lamp socket. Light bulbs were also used, mainly on bass drums. The bulbs served two purposes- they provided heat to deal with humidity and they also provided back lighting for colorful bass drum artwork. Often, blinking colored lights were used for extra effect.
LEEDY DRUM HEATER (1928)
BELOW: Light bulbs and fixtures installed on bass drum shells
LEEDY ADVERTISEMENT (1928)
The photos below show the effects of internal lighting.
