The drum has a veneered shell of handsomely-figured wood with a large marquetry panel of various colored woods displaying musical instruments and floral decorations. The rims are also richly inlayed in geometric patterns. The silver plaque is engraved: "INTERNATIONAL MILITARY / ENCAMPMENT / FIRST (PRESENTED) PLACE / BY / LYON & HEALY/ CHICAGO / OCT.1887.

The firm of Lyon and Healy dates back to 1864 and by the latter part of the century, it was manufacturing a wide range of musical instruments. This stunning presentation side drum was awarded as a first place trophy for marksmanship. The occasion was the lavish International Military Encampment in Chicago commemorating the 50th anniversary of its founding.