I am curious about your mention of Captain Joseph C. Clayton. We are flute historians and restorers, and have just finished restoring a lovely flute made in the 1850's. The instrument is inscribed, "Joseph C. Clayton" on the mouthpiece. The original case is with the flute, and bears the handwritten name "Joseph C. Clayton, Washington, D.C."

Do you know if there is any record of Captain Clayton's personal life?

Many thanks,

David Shorey