Betsy Ross pianos

[Phil Ryan]

Is there such a thing as a Betsy Ross piano?   I have see that name used on
this list many times and I've always assumed it was a eupenism for an
extremely old piano.  Yesterday I received a call to estimate the cost of
restoring an old piano received as a gift.  When I asked the brand name, I
got "Betsy Ross." I broke out in laughter (I know it was unprofessional) and
so did the cutomer in embarrassment.

Anyway, after hanging up, I went to "The Piano Book 4th" and found no
mention of the piano, however I did find some dates in the Pierce Atlas, but
no information.

Question:  Anyone know any history of the piano?  Were they a decent piano
in their day?  In general, are they worth restoring?

Phil Ryan
Miami Beach, FL