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Organs associated with Hatwell's Walker gallopers
http://www.fops.org/forum/viewtopic.php?f=19&t=309
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Author:  Steve Earl [ Mon Feb 07, 2011 9:09 pm ]
Post subject:  Organs associated with Hatwell's Walker gallopers

My wife's family history is taking us on quite a journey. We now know her Gt Grandfather, George Alexander INNES, owned a dobby set horse roundabout from Thomas Walker of Tewkesbury in the early part of the 20th century. He bought it second hand some time before 1911, when it was probably some 20-25 years old. It came with a IMHOF & MUKLE 'self changing barrel organ'. George installed steam drive and galloper motion to the horses and they all stayed in extended family ownership (INNES and PHIPPS) until the outbreak of WW2, or thereabouts.

The ride was then acquired by Hatwell Bros from Oxfordshire and toured as Hatwells Golden Gallopers until 1984, when it was sold. Soon after purchase the Hatwells installed a VERBEEK and stored the IMHOF & MUKLE organ until the 1950s, when it was sold to "a chef from Manchester". It is believed to be still in the UK.

The VERBEEK is thought to be in USA , having been stripped from the ride's assets, along with all its horses, following its use in Mickey Rourke film Homeboy. The rest of the ride found its way home to the UK and is now a centre piece in a Devon adventure park.

Can anyone shed any light on the present whereabouts of the IMHOF & MUKLE? Because of the family connections I would love to see (and hear??) it.

Any info or advice will be gratefully received. Regards ~ Steve

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