Hello my name is John Kane.
I am a doctoral student at Franklin Pierce University (NH) I am now living in Salem Ma with my wife Jennifer. My roots are in Somervlle Ma, where I lived for over 30 plus years. For two years now, I have been working on my dissertation/research on Hanley Sound of Medford Ma, which as many of you know will take shape as a documentary and written piece.
Let me explain...
Over fifty years ago two young brothers began their historic career in sound reinforcement at 430 Salem Street, (Haines Square) in Medford Massachusetts. The name of their business was called Hanley Sound Inc. Those two young men were Bill and Terry Hanley who both grew up just a few short blocks from this location on Farragut Avenue. The Hanley family has left a lasting legacy in this town.
For well over twenty-five years the Hanley brothers and various employees worked tirelessly to construct powerful sound systems for some of our nations largest and most historic events. The sound systems for the iconic Newport Jazz and Folk Festivals, Beatles concerts, the inauguration of a President as well as the infamous Woodstock festival, were all constructed right out of a non-descript storefront nestled within this tight-knit-blue-collar community. Most will agree that the sound reinforcement industry was born here and now we hope to celebrate the significance of such.
I am excited to say that on October 19th 2013 from 10am to 4pm the city of Medford and myself will be honoring the groundbreaking endeavors of the Hanley brothers. Celebrated by industry peers and colleagues, their innovative work is known to have shaped the billion dollar sound industry, as we know it today.
Excitingly, Medford’s own Mayor McGlynn has given us the green light to construct a historical plaque/monument that will be placed in front of the former site of Hanley Sound (now a coffee shop). Following the ceremony, we also plan on having a concert with a industry-recording artist for a special performance. We hope to have a family event filled day with coverage by local newspapers and television stations. We expect many volunteers, vendors and spectators to be in attendance as well. Coincidentally “The 3rd Annual Haines Sq. Fall Festival” will also be celebrated on this day with a road race earlier that morning.
Friends, there is still much to be planned out. To make this event happen successfully, we are asking for your partnership. The history behind Hanley Sound will not only give back to citizens of Medford MA, but also serve a much broader musical community. For those who are curious about the city’s rich history, the birth of the sound reinforcement history or just music in general, this historic site will surely serve those interests for years to come.
Again, as a side note, this event will be filmed for my documentary "The Last Seat in the House: The Story of Hanley Sound" which I have been working on for close to 2 years now.
The marker and event costs will run us roughly around $5,000.00... possibly a bit more. Your support will help us with the historical marker, performer costs, t-shirts, buttons, posters, and some of the filming of this event etc. Currently we have a fundraiser happening on indiegogo right now. Here you can make a donation to help.
Keep in mind... Even if we reach our goal please continue to support this very important endeavor.
We are anxiously looking forward to this year’s event at Haines Sq and I know Bill, Terry and the Hanley family are as well…it will most certainly be a day to remember! If you are local...please come down and join us!
For more information on Hanley Sound and my project please go to: www.thelastseatinthehouse.com or www.facebook.com/hanleysound
Thank you for your time and consideration and see you in October!
Sincerely,
John Kane
Hanley Sound Historical Marker Coordinator
