Halvor Peter Blakkestad

BLAKKESTAD, Halvor Peter Born 1863 Gol, Hallingdal Norway, died 1935 Minneapolis, Minnesota USA Emigrated with his family to the US in 1875. Violinist, both on classical and Hardanger instruments. Active as a maker from 1890. Established a shop at 1413 Washington Avenue South, Minneapolis 1901, moving to 618 First Avenue South later that year, and to 609 First Avenue South 1903. The shop location moved several more times; in 1912 to 619 Marquette Avenue, in 1915 to the family home at 4155 Blaisdell Avenue, and finally to 710 Marquette Avenue in 1918. For most of this time he was assisted by his brother Peter, and Mathias Dahl, who became vice-president of the company in 1920. In 1924 Halvor sold his interest in the firm and worked from his home on Blaisdell Avenue. In 1931 he entered the property business and later became vice president of a Hotel. Nevertheless he continued making instruments and produced around 60 violins in his career; violin no. 54 is dated 1927. A fine craftsman, he generally used a Stradivari model of good proportions, very well finished but a little vague in the details. Oil varnish of pale red-brown shade, excellent wood obtained on various trips to Markneukirchen. Also made bows of good repute. H. P. Blakkestad / Minneapolis. Minn. [Wenberg]