That is a Western Electric non sync turntable set that would have been used to provide music for silent films. The platter in the forefront of the picture is one of the turntables. The projectionist would fade back and forth between the players as necessary. A headphone would be used to cue up the records. The wood boxes to the left would be screwed to the hinges on the main case are the covers which would protect the turntables when not in use.
It should be rescued even in the poor shape of
the case.
Were there any other projection or sound gear with it?