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Hi There,
I have recently acquired a Civil War era violin. It is in very nice condition but I'm having difficulty reading the makers label. The date is clear, 1863, but here is all I can clearly see of the name:
J.C. Ho nes
There appears to be a space equal to the size of one or two letters in the last name.
As it is handwritten the third to last letter could also be a "v" or an "r". The "o" could also possibly be an "a".
I thought it possible it could be J.C. Haynes however I cannot confirm this.
Your thoughts?
Best,
Greg
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Hi @Greg Greg:
I can't help with your maker question, but wanted to say that I think it's cool you've got a Civil War era violin. I'm curious what else you know about it. How do you know the age? Do you know who else owned it or where it's been?
Can you post a photo? That might help others identify the maker, too.
Good luck with your new old fiddle!
-- Diane
EDIT: I see you just added a photo, so please disregard that part. 
When the work's all done and the sun's settin' low,
I pull out my fiddle and I rosin up the bow.
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Thank you Diane. The date is on the label just below the maker's name. I got this from a friend who's aunt had a collection of 7 or 8 vintage violins and left them for him. She played for one of the philharmonics (sorry, I can't remember which).
I've had it for a few years but I'm afraid he didn't have much info on its provenance. You're right though, it really would be nice to know it's history.
Best,
Greg
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I think I forgot to mention the obvious. The violin was made for someone in the Union Army as you can see the Union crest on the back and neck. 
Regulars
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It appears to me to say Harris. A quick Google search turned up a couple JC Harris violins made during the same period that were up for auction a few years ago. I didn't really look any further than that.
Let the bow flow.
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I'm certain you are correct. Thank you!
Regulars
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@Greg That is one beautiful violin!! How is the sound?
Violinist start date - May 2013
Fiddler start date - May 2014
FIDDLE- Gift from a dear friend. A 1930-40 german copy, of a french copy of a Stradivarius. BOW - $50 carbon fiber. Strings - Dominants with E Pirastro Gold string.
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I agree! How about a pic from the front? Better yet, a video so we can hear it sing! That's a great find! Lucky you!
Honorary tenured advisor
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I think the most interesting thing about this instrument is that it doesn't have C-bouts.
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. ~Herm Albright
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Shaick, it still sounds full and rich.
Micra, here is a picture of the front.
Uzi, I agree, it is quite 
unique.
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That is a great looking Baroque Violin. Would love to hear more of its history.
One thing I noticed is the bridge looks out of place, since its not between the F hole notches. I would check were the sound post is and the string length (12 7/8") from nut to bridge.
Again you have quiite the prize there, hope that you enjoy for years to come.
With violins there is no fretting over the music.
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