Perris Band circa 1900-1910

by Bill Hulstrom

Perris Valley Historical & Museum Association

The photo shows the members of the Perris band in the early 1900’s. All the members were listed on the back of the photo but, unfortunately, no order was given for who was who other than the second from the left might be Frank Beatty. The members of the band are: Lew Tobey, the leader; Julius Rieger, a real estate agent; F. H. Carpenter; Charles Gyger, a gold miner; Frank Reynolds; E.E. Waters, a well digger; L. Lynch; Rube Reynolds; Eugene Kimbell; Joe Rieger, son of Julius Rieger; C.D. Bevier; Price Hickey; James Mack; and finally Frank Beatty, a stationary engineer who became the Justice of the Peace in Perris from the mid 1920’s through the 1930’s.

 The Perris band photo reflects what any community in the county would be doing to show their pride in their community. The band was there to help celebrate local events and provide entertainment for the people. This was the era of John Philip Sousa and his rousing marches. Most towns were not lucky enough to have the United States Marine Band under the direction of Sousa come to their town to play. So they did the next best thing. They would organize bands with volunteers from many walks of life who learned to play Sousa’s and other composer’s music for the town’s people.

 It is hoped that some of the readers may have information about some of the band members pictured. If you can identify a name for an individual in the band picture please contact the Perris Valley Historical & Museum. Any information shared would assist the Perris Valley Historical & Museum Association fill in pieces of the history of the Greater Perris Valley. Post Office Box 343, Perris, CA 92570. (951) 657-0274.