Squeezebox

3D Model

Description This small hand accordion, also known as a squeeze box or concertina, was a cherished companion for someone living and working along the canal. Portable and lively, these instruments brought music and joy to the tough daily lives of canal workers and their families. Valued for ease of use, accordions helped build community spirit, offering entertainment and confort on boats and towpaths. Music was central to canal life, breaking up monotonous work and fostering bonds.

This squeeze box shows signs of wear and bears markings: ‘Instrument N 3603,’ ‘Factory. Hollingworth; St. James. Ro. Holloway. Rock Childley,’ ‘London 135, Foioh(?), Holborn.’

Rock Childley was a small maker, and few examples survive.

Ref: NWM05498

Photography and Model Credit: C.Bacon, G.Wilson-Williams and I Allen Collections Department, Canal & River Trust. This object is part of the Canal and River Trust’s collection. Learn more here.