That is a dirty one for sure I would try a test spot with just warm ,mild soapy water not drippin wet but just dampen the gunk then try and scrub it off with a soft cotton towel if it works keep on a going ,I am not a fan of alot of modern cleaners but i am sure someone on here is a guru at this and will have a better answer.. good luck great drum..

I would think your biggest issue is the paper tag, don't get it wet...it's paper. Maybe cover it with a plastic bag and tape on the outside just over the edges, do this first. Also remember these old drums were made with water based glues, too much water and you could have issues.

Mike T...I tried what you said with soap and water but to no avail...It never really "cut into" the gunk...It did take a little off though...My worry is that the extensive cleaning wiould saturate the inner plys of the shell as Rockiezz mentioned causing issues...

I like to keep it original as possible...I will repaint the interior if I have to, but, I want to exhaust all cleaning efforts first...

Any other suggestions???

Thanks again guys...

Cheers

If it were my drum I would try a citrus based degreaser. I've had great luck with it in the past on Vintage Ludwig Thermo Gloss Maple