The faceplate and reedblocks were built by Elton "Balloon" Quibodeaux, also known for having built Teche brand accordions. Elton did this to a handful of Sterlings, Monarchs, and Eagle Brands. I know that because I own the one Balloon built for Reggie Matte. Reggie told me that the main reason Elton did this for a few people was because he was convinced that by putting in a new set of maple reed blocks and replacing the original one piece faceplate with a plywood one it would make the accordion more air tight and responsive.

What's really interesting to me is that the bass box, fingerboard, and corners were made by Marc Savoy. The flapper rods are original to a Sterling/Monarch and about 90% of the reeds inside are blue steel and probably belonged to the same Sterling the that the rods came off of.

I'm not trying to detract from the history of the box. I don't doubt at all that it was indeed owned by Purvis, I'm just trying to let people know that it's not an actual all original Sterling.

John

Elton Quibodeaux?!!!! That was the same man that introduced me to Louisiana Made Accordions with Hohner reeds in them. Match made in heaven. You could say I knew him pretty well. Good Man. Deceased now.