Alton Military Band -- Can anyone help identify the members of this band? Identified is Sip Sipma (1887-1966) - Middle Row in this photo, 3rd from the right.

Alton Democrat, July 6, 1907

Help Identify--Group photo of what is believed to be Alton area "home talent players." Sip Sipma is identified-Top Row, 2nd from the left. The people appear to be dressed in costume, and could be seated in a stage setting. Sip Sipma was also a member of the Alton Military Band. See the following news article, which MIGHT BE referring to the group photograph above, but that is NOT KNOWN FOR CERTAIN.

The Alton Democrat, Saturday, August 24, 1907.

Band Comedy-J. G. Anderson well known to local theater goers is in town for a home talent production for the benefit of the Alton band. Mr. Anderson has secured the services of Herbert De Guerre--leading man last season with the Sanford Dodge Company--to direct the production and play the leading part. The play selected by the committee is the popular New York success, "Mrs. Temple's Telegram" in which Mr. De Guerre has played many times with professional companies. This famous farce ran for three hundred consecutive nights in New York City and was pronounced by critics and public to be the greatest comedy hit of many seasons. The very best local talent has been secured for the various strong parts, and Mr. De Guerre stated after the rehearsal last night that the Alton cast are the cleverest and most congenial amateurs he has ever coached. Unusual interest is already displayed in this production and Mr. Anderson assures us that it will be the most satisfactory and cleverest performance ever witnessed on the local stage.