This on-line article on the history fo the mountain dulcimer has a
bibliography and some potential clues for places to look for
information.
http://www.bearmeadow.com/smi/histof.htm
This paragraph in particular seems to offer some leads on the selling of
such instruments:
"Easily constructed by hand, dulcimers appear to have been made by
isolated individuals, although several pockets of family tradition
arose, notably the Hicks of North Carolina, and the Meltons of Galax,
Virgina. Two makers are known to have marketed their dulcimers and are
probably largely responsible for the instrument's dissemination within
Appalachia. J. Edward Thomas of Knott County, Kentucky, had connections
to the Hindman Settlement School in eastern Kentucky and made dulcimers
between 1871 and 1930, many of which he peddled from a mulecart. C. P.
Pritchard of Huntington, West Virginia, manufactured what he termed an
"American dulcimer" and offered strings through mail order. Both makers
used an hourglass form and three strings and reflected national
interests in novelty instruments and in constructing a unified American
culture."
Gregg
Gregg D. Kimball
Director of Publications
and Educational Services
Library of Virginia
804/692-3722
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-----Original Message-----
From: Kimberly Burnette-Dean [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Wednesday, August 25, 2004 7:38 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Dulcimers in Virginia
Good Morning!
I am currently involved in conducting research on dulcimers. What I am
trying to locate is any advertisements or mentions of the selling price
of dulcimers (both hammered dulcimers and Appalachian dulcimers) in the
19th century. If the source is from Virginia, all the better, but I am
interested no matter what the state or region.
Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated!
Kimberly Burnette-Dean
Lead Historical Interpreter
Virginia's Explore Park
P.O. Box 8508
Roanoke, VA 24014
540-427-1800, ext 330
[log in to unmask]
www.explorepark.org
P.O. Box 8508
Roanoke, VA 24014
540-427-1800, ext 330
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