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American Five-String Fretless Banjo

Object Details

Description
This banjo was made by an unknown maker in the United States around 1878-1882. It is a Five-String Fretless Banjo, with 9 brackets with eagles and 1 bracket with a shield (replacement), and a metal covered wood hoop. The brackets are similar to those on commercially-made banjos available through musical instruments distributors such as J. Howard Foote. This instrument was rebuilt by Kyle Creed of Galax, Virginia around 1965.
Location
Currently not on view
Data Source
National Museum of American History
date made
1878-1882
Physical Description
wood (overall material)
metal (overall material)
animal skin (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 34 1/2 in x 11 in x 2 1/2 in; 87.63 cm x 27.94 cm x 6.35 cm
Object Name
banjo

Featured In

  • Banjos:Banjos
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