John Mescall, a seasoned musician residing in Seaside, has shared a remarkable journey with his beloved cello, crafted in 1892 by Thomas Davies in Birmingham, England. This instrument, marked as #6 in Davies' cello collection, has been Mescall's faithful companion for nearly five decades, accompanying him through various adventures across Europe and California.
In a recent turn of events, Mescall experienced another setback as his cherished cello was stolen from his car during a visit to San Francisco State University's McKenna Theater. The heart-wrenching loss left Mescall devastated, given the sentimental and professional value the cello held in his life.
Upon receiving the distressing news, Mescall's friend, Robert Seals, sprang into action, determined to assist in recovering the missing cello. Seals, known for his innovative creations like the Klean Kanteen, shares a deep bond with Mescall through their mutual love for music and the Wave Tones surf band.
Together, Seals and Mescall embarked on a mission to locate the stolen cello, scouring pawn shops and music stores in San Francisco. Their efforts took an unexpected turn when a Craigslist listing led them to a photograph of Mescall's cello, placed for sale at the West Wind Capitol Flea Market in San Jose.
Woody Hassman, a seasoned flea market enthusiast, stumbled upon the cello and recognized its unique beauty and recent usage, setting it apart from typical flea market finds. Hassman's vigilant eye and quick thinking prompted him to post the cello's image on Craigslist, aiming to reunite it with its rightful owner.
Seals contacted Hassman, who swiftly took action to retrieve the cello from the flea market vendor. With determination and a firm stance, Hassman secured the instrument and arranged a meeting at a local Starbucks, where Mescall was joyously reunited with his cello.
Grateful for the swift recovery, Mescall serenaded Hassman and Seals with a moving performance of Bach's Suite No. 3, showcasing the instrument's enduring beauty and his profound connection to it. Despite the ordeal, Mescall found solace in the unwavering support of his friends and the community.
The heartwarming tale of the lost and found cello underscores the power of friendship, resilience, and the enduring spirit of music in connecting individuals across unexpected paths. As Mescall continues his musical journey, his cello stands as a symbol of perseverance and the unwavering bond between a musician and his instrument.