John Center was initially a professional photographer with a keen eye who began making pipes in Edinburgh in 1869. His son James joined him in the business later. The family moved to Melbourne, Australia in 1908 where they continued to make pipes. John died in 1913, and James died a young man in 1919 of the Spanish flu epidemic. A leading player, Jimmy Center was commemorated in Willie Ross’s superb jig, “Center’s Bonnet.”

John Center was renown for his workmanship and refined sound. This set is typical, with meticulous turning, lovely ivory mounts, and a tone which is steady and seamless, but not booming — not as quiet as David Glen’s pipes, and not quite as big as Duncan MacDougall’s best sets, but similar in timbre and steadiness.

All drone pieces in this set are in excellent condition. The bass stock had fine cracks that have been sealed and invisible whipped. The blowstick stock is a reproduction in blackwood with a poly lining and the original mount. The blowpipe appears to be an old Henderson, and the chanter stock is an old replacement with a slightly different combing pattern.

This is a pleasing old piece of history, both aesthetically and tonally.