DeBence Antique Music World is a museum in Franklin, Pennsylvania whose collection contains more than 100 antique mechanical musical instruments, including music boxes, band organs, player pianos, a nickelodeon piano, as well as a number of other antiques.
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I lived in Meadville most of my life and can't believe I had never heard of this gem before. The collection is extensive- you'll see the first synthesizer, many home organs, a piano player, player pianos, and many music boxes and machines from different eras (including some that played music for local theme parks like Kennywood). Key parts of some of the machines were open so that we could see how they worked inside. It was a fascinating blend of music and engineering, and the enthusiastic guide really brought the machines to life. The Victorian music boxes and gramophones (some with puppets!) in particular felt like a trip back in time. Because it drew from a regional collection, the museum also had an interesting mix of one-of-a-kind instruments with standard machines that were used by everyday people....
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I found this website when I was looking for things to do during a tour of smaller towns/cities in PA, and DeBence did not disappoint! The staff was very friendly, and our guide was extremely knowledgeable and clearly passionate about the pieces that she showed us today. There is a rich history in each piece, which have been carefully preserved and restored to their full potential. The music was delightful, and my husband and I enjoyed learning about the history behind them all. While we don't live close by, I will certainly let visitors to our home in Pittsburgh know that DeBence Antique Music World is certainly worth...
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Found this place when we stayed in Franklin, visiting my Aunt in Tionesta. This gem is awesome! The staff are wonderful as well. We spent over an hour in the museum basement checking out all the exhibits. The player pianos, jukebox, and other items that you can actually play by dropping a quarter in are fantastic! We played most all of them more than once. We actually visited two days in a row to take it all in and bring some other family the second time too. We didn't do the paid your, but really want to next time. Don't hesitate to check this place out if you are...
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