For enthusiasts of early banjo
Old Sledge
Named for the card game "All Fours," a very popular trump game and favorite of George Devol.
This is a composite banjo made from an old Bob Flesher kit rim that Terry Bell expertly built and fitted a neck to.
The Flesher kit was my first "early style" banjo. I put it together with less of the little knowledge that I have now.
It was trying to be a Boucher, but failed. When I got "Harriet" from George Wunderlich, the kit banjo went into a case and stayed.
Thinking I'd sell it, but not wanting to stick anybody with it, I sent Terry a wire asking for a neck.
We corresponded back and forth about details, measurements and I sent him some photos of originals that I liked. Then I sent him the rim.
Just before the Early Banjo Gathering, I received this-- a perfect neck. Ebony pegs, hard as a rock cherry, and a perfect fit to my hand.
I used it to play in the concert.
Views: 115
Albums: "Old Sledge"
Location: Pepperell, MA
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Comment by Strumelia on July 5, 2013 at 10:06pm
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That's a beauty! The bridge is pretty impressive too- tell us about that.
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Comment by Joel Hooks on July 6, 2013 at 10:12am
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The Bridge was July 4th morning fun. The design came from a 1880s "George Dobson" catalog (really Bruno & Sons music jobbers). The catalog lists it as "imitation ivory;" I used maple. I liked the design.
Turns out it sounds good! So I made a spare.
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Wow, you made that?- nice!
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Comment by John Masciale on July 6, 2013 at 2:55pm
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The bridge is beautiful! Mine are far more utilitarian.
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Comment by Dave Vinci on July 6, 2013 at 10:50pm
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Really nice work Joel.
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