Bass Dulcimer

One of the things that I really love about working here is seeing all the interesting instruments that everyone has. Chris and Deb visited us last week and brought a bass dulcimer with them. I didn't know such an instrument existed! This particular bass dulcimer is very special. It is made from American Chestnut (which is a practically extinct tree now due to a tree disease that killed most of them). This wood came from a barn built in 1885. I love how the knot holes are used as soundholes! You can even see two wooden plugs on the front of the instrument where nail holes were. Bob Taunton (Sweet Fern Music - Tallassee, Alabama) makes these dulcimers. It uses Fender short scale bass strings. This is truly a unique instrument! Take a look at the pictures. It really sounds like a bass, too!