Here is some "vintage geek" drum trivia:

I was reading the May 1925 issue of Music Trades Magazine and noticed what I believe to be the earliest reference to the term "Black Beauty" as the name of a drum. The name Black Beauty was trade marked by Albert Houdlett & Sons, Inc of Brooklyn, NY., makers of drums and banjos. The description of the new Black Beauty drums describes them as being made from rock maple with nickel plated "trimmings" and a "black velvetone finish".. They are also described as having a "good snappy tone".

A lot of people assume that Ludwig & Ludwig was the first drum company to use the Black Beauty name but actually, the Slingerland Banjo and Drum Company was using the name in 1928 (a few years before Ludwig & Ludwig) to describe their black engraved snare drums. After reading this 1925 trade magazine, I see that Albert Houdlett's use of the name pre-dates both companies. So, unless someone can find an earlier reference, Albert Houdlett & Sons has the distinction of being the first drum company to use the name Black Beauty.

P.S. Interestingly, Ludwig & Ludwig has an ad for their metal snare drums on the following page.