Jun 2, 2019
The Rudolph Wurlitzer Company was founded in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1853 by German immigrant Franz Rudolph Wurlitzer. The company began as a musical instrument importer, and by 1880 began producing its own keyboard instruments, including pianos, organs, and orchestrions. Wurlitzer became especially renowned as the largest and most successful producer of theater organs. These were often highly ornate and huge, and a “Mighty Wurlitzer” became a major draw for any cinema lucky enough to have one. In the mid-20th century, Wurlitzer began selling electric pianos and jukeboxes. Wurlitzer piano and organ brands were bought by Baldwin Piano Co. in 1988. Wurlitzer jukeboxes continued to be produced until 2013.
