19th C Instruments

These instruments reflect the roots of American folk music. They have have accompanied the songs of our nation through hard times and prosperity. These are instruments of the people.

Banjos
Fretless banjos, gourd banjos, minstrel banjos - The first rule of the banjo is, "There are no rules!" Whether you pick, frail or stroke, use a modern tuning or an old one, you will find the fretless banjo a rewarding new texture to your musical palette. It is part of our musical heritage - a voice singing to us from the dust. Enjoy!

Dulcimers
The dulcimer has its roots in old Europe and strongly resembles a simplified Hummel (also known as the Swedish Board Zither) or the German Scheitholt. "Appalachian" or Mountain Dulcimer is a modern term for an old instrument. According to Ralph Lee Smith, an Appalacian historian and musician, the earliest known example is dated 1832. Most surviving dulcimers are from the mid-19th century onward. In the 19th century they were called zithers or just plain dulcimers. Ours are specially made for us by Black Mountain Dulcimers to resemble an instrument from the 1800s.

Tambourines
From references in Genesis and Exodus, through the middle ages to the present times, the tambourine has provided a joyous sound of celebration. One of the earliest folk instruments, it was a mainstay of the minstrel stage and is still at home with today's folk music. We hand make each instrument in the old way.

Guitars
The epitome of 20th Century folk music, the guitar hasn't changed a great deal since the 1790's. As we are able to obtain them, we will offer select antique guitars for sale.