Name/Title
Hammered DulcimerEntry/Object ID
91.07.1Description
One hammered dulcimer, sometimes called a hammer dulcimer, constructed from painted pine in a trapezoidal case. Painted and grained on inside cover in flowing shell designs. The case is hinged with two cords on each side to keep the propped open. On the left side there are 12 sets of 4 raised iron pegs alternating with 11 sets of 2 iron pegs. The side panels have a clear finish, as do the flank and the sounding board. An iron rod is inset on the edge of the left maple panel and protects the wood from the strings. There is a black painted sounding board with two circular resonator holes. One bridge, pierced with circular holes, is glued almost perpendicular to the front. Another is on the far right. The following words are stenciled in gold on the underside of lid: “P. Wight, Maker / Alabama, NY ". Includes 2 hammers and one tuner.Context
The hammered dulcimer is a percussion stringed instrument that is an ancient ancestor of the piano. Its history dates to at least the early 18th century in America. Strings are stretched across a trapezoid shaped hollow resonant sounding board. Bridges are placed to create a treble side and a bass side. Occasionally a dulcimer will have only one bridge and at other times a third small bridge is added to create more low notes. Small “hammers’ are used to strike the strings. The instrument can be placed in the lap or on a stand. Several dulcimer makers thrived in Western New York in the 1850’s and 60’s. This dulcimer was made by Perry Wight (1831-1862) of Alabama, New York. It is one of three made by him in the GCV&M collection.Collection
Genesee Country Village and MuseumMade/Created
Manufacturer
Perry WightDate made
1855 - 1862Place
Town
AlabamaState/Province
New YorkCountry
United States of AmericaContinent
North AmericaInscription/Signature/Marks
Type
StampLocation
Inner LidTranscription
P. Wight Alabama NYLexicon
Search Terms
Dulcimer, Hammered dulcimer, P. Wight, Perry WightDimensions
Height
4-9/16 inWidth
41 inDepth
14-1/4 inMaterial
Pine, Wire, Brass
