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Vol. 86 July 18, 2026 No. 19

A. M. McPhail

d. October 6, 1902 · Canadian (born New Brunswick)

piano maker founder legislator
  • A. M. McPhail Company

Biography

A. M. McPhail was born at St. Andrews, New Brunswick, and came to Boston as a boy, where he was apprenticed to the renowned piano maker Gilbert. He started his own piano business in Boston in 1837 and, valuing artistic over commercial success, met all his obligations without fail throughout a career lasting from 1837 to 1891. He took an active interest in educational, artistic, and musical affairs and served as a representative in the Massachusetts Legislature. He retired in 1891 and died at Omaha on October 6, 1902. His business continued as the A. M. McPhail Company, a corporation.

Highlights

  • Born at St. Andrews, New Brunswick; apprenticed under piano maker Gilbert in Boston
  • Started his own piano business in Boston in 1837 and ran it until retiring in 1891
  • Served as a representative in the Massachusetts Legislature

Source

Alfred Dolge, Pianos and Their Makers, Vol. I (1911), p. 278.

Public domain.

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