Original Item. Only One Available. This is a very good original German WWII Deutsches Jungvolk formation field drum of the large style commonly referred to by collectors as a Landsknecht drum. It features the distinctive black-and-white flame-pattern decoration associated with the DJ, black-painted wooden rims, two period-style drumheads, its long leather carrying strap, and a pair of approximately 16-inch drumsticks. The original rope tensioning system is no longer present and has been completely replaced with modern nylon rope, while the original leather connecting or tension pieces appear to have been retained.

The Deutsches Jungvolk, commonly abbreviated DJ, was the junior boys’ section of the Hitler Youth organization. This original 3rd Reich field drum was used in parades and rally formations by the boys of the DJ Deutsches Jungvolk, and comes with its original leather carry strap and drumsticks. The drum measures 21” tall with a 15 1/4” diameter. The ropes are all entirely replaced on this drum, being made of nylon, the originals likely having worn away very long ago. They are attached by what look to be the original leather connecting pieces. The wooden rims are 1½” tall, and are painted plain black, which is correct according to period photos. The top head is in good shape with a period repair but the bottom head is broken through, but thankfully this drum comes with a replacement head. It will take work to replace the head due to the intricate rope system, but it could be done with some work.

The heads appear of the period and of the correct material. The top head has a period repair to a break. The drum still retains the very long leather carry strap attached at the two rings, with no markings we can see. There is some crazing and wear to the leather the drum should not be carried by this strap. The drum has some wear to the paint, especially the black paint on the rims.

The drum sticks appear to be made from cane or bamboo, with one retaining a tape wrap for a better grip. They measure roughly 16” long and are a great addition to this set. The black-and-white flame decoration is the most distinctive feature of the piece and is strongly associated with the visual identity of the Deutsches Jungvolk.

Large drums of this general form were used during marches, rallies, formation activities, and other organized appearances where drum and fife music helped regulate movement and contribute to ceremonial presentation. Unlike many surviving examples that have lost their accessories, this drum retains its long leather carrying strap and is accompanied by a pair of period-style sticks. Its condition also clearly reflects its long working and storage history.

The worn paint, repaired upper head, completely damaged lower head, aged leather strap, and replacement nylon ropes are all important condition factors, while the original black-and-white decorated wooden shell, rims, leather tension pieces, suspension hardware, and surviving upper head preserve the principal character of the instrument.

This is an especially interesting surviving example of a German WWII Deutsches Jungvolk formation drum, distinguished by its bold black-and-white flame pattern and unusually substantial size. The replacement rope system and damaged lower head are significant alterations, but the retained leather hardware, carry strap, drumsticks, period-style heads, and extensively preserved painted shell leave much of the original construction intact.