OUR photograph this week came to me with an email from Mr George Maidment who wrote, “I have recently come into possession of a piano with Salisbury ties.

From what I understand it’s from a Smith family that were based in Fisherton Street”.

Mr Maidment saved the piano from being scrapped and I hope he has much pleasure tinkling the ivories.

The Smith family referred to by Mr Maidment had a music shop at 78 Fisherton Street called Handel House and the story has uncovered some interesting local history.

The shop, which sold musical instruments and sheet music, was situated next to the city hall and was there for many years.

It is also interesting to observe that Salisbury’s first motor car, a Benz, was owned by Mr F.C Carter, who founded the Fisherton Street music shop.

In an old newspaper article which is unfortunately undated, Mr P.G.A. Smith, a nephew, and brother of the then proprietor of the store, mentioned an interesting fact at Southampton where he was speaking at a luncheon.

He recalled the sensation that Mr Carter used to create when he drove in his car down Fisherton Street.

Mr Smith mentioned there were many Salisburians who well remembered seeing what was then a great wonder.

Mr Carter it seems, was an intrepid ‘Knight of the road’ and one day he made a complete run to Bournemouth, which was then considered a great performance.

The next day he essayed the journey home, but the car gave up at the thirteenth milestone, an unlucky spot.

Mr Carter was forced to remain the night in Ringwood and completed the journey to Salisbury the next day. Amidst great laughter Mr Smith said, “There was a sensation when he drove down Fisherton Street, to see the cattle go through shop windows!”

Mr Maidment would appreciate any additional information on Handel House Music Shop. Email frogg@timezonepublishing.com.

 

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