Harmonium

Pedal operated portable harmonium inside the lid there is a gold transfer inscribed, "manufactured expressly for Hamilton & co. 15 Stokes Croft, Bristol, established 1843." This Harmonium once belonged to the preacher, James Cox, an ancestor of the donor. James Cox was born at Bratten Wilts in 1835 but eventually moved to Bristol where he worked at the Ashton Ironworks. An explosion at the works left him blind and crippled, and changed his life. Previously a heavy drinker he became deeply religious and became a preacher and missionary. Prayer meetings were held in his cottage and he also held outdoor services at which he played this harmonium. He died on April 19th, 1900.