I inherited this banjo from my grandfather, and I can’t find any information about it. There are no tags, numbers or identifying markings on it, other than a what seems to be a unique inlay on the peg head/head stock. My guess( uneducated) is that it’s possibly late 1800s to possibly the early 1900s. The inlay is a Maltese cross, and I can’t find a single photo anywhere of one like it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Edited by - Brianhacker1 on 03/18/2023 16:18:51
quote:
Originally posted by Brianhacker1I inherited this banjo from my grandfather, and I can’t find any information about it. There are no tags, numbers or identifying markings on it, other than a what seems to be a unique inlay on the peg head/head stock. My guess( uneducated) is that it’s possibly late 1800s to possibly the early 1900s. The inlay is a Maltese cross, and I can’t find a single photo anywhere of one like it. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
You will need to post picture of the banjo their are many who may have the information you seek.
Sorry pictures and lots of them ;)
full views of back, front and sides, plus lots of close-ups-- peghead, hardware, heel of the neck, inside of the rim, etc.
Washburn style inlays - possibly made by L & H or R & L in the late 1890s/early 1900s.
Well that narrows it down. Also confirms my guess on the date. Thank you.
I know it probably doesnt have significant monetary value. So would putting a new head on it and cleaning it up hurt the value at all?
quote:
Originally posted by Brianhacker1I know it probably doesnt have significant monetary value. So would putting a new head on it and cleaning it up hurt the value at all?
No. Just don't polish it. A good cleaning, new head and proper set-up is all it needs.
Thank you. I’d love to learn to play it, I’ve just been scared to screw it up somehow.
quote:
Originally posted by Brianhacker1I know it probably doesnt have significant monetary value. So would putting a new head on it and cleaning it up hurt the value at all?
Why do you think it needs a new head ? If the head is in one piece leave it. I have banjos of this vintage with what look like their original heads (It's impossible to tell if the head may have been changed 100 years ago) that play perfectly. If the heads on any of these actually broke I would change it with no hesitation - though for a replacement hide not plastic.
The head looks to be in good shape. I wouldn’t try and clean it either. To me ingrained grime/patina is part of the story of a vintage banjo. As a buyer, for me an old skin head in playable condition is a plus.
We’re only temporary custodians. Care for it, keep it in good nick, play and enjoy it and - eventually - pass it on for the next generation to care for, play and enjoy.
Edited by - adstrom on 03/19/2023 05:56:20
Montgomery Ward Windsor banjo
The head is worn through in a few areas. It keeps tension and is playable, but I have no idea how much longer. I do not want to change anything about it, as it was my grandfathers, and I grew up listening to him play it. I guess I’ll just leave it be, buy another banjo, and learn to play that one. Thank you all for your advice and insite.
Man you’re not going to get it any better than learning to play on your grandfather’s banjo.
Tighten that head up a little, put some new strings on it…and you’re golden. I can’t see anything wrong with that head.
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