Dwight Ladd Dulcimer - Dulcimer Shop Mountain View, Arkansas

I'm new to the mountain dulcimer.  Played a little a long time ago.  Found a dulcimer with no strings.  Very long and skinny.  Hour glass shape.  It does have a 6 1/2 fret.  Person who has it says it was made in 1978.  Was bought at the Dulcimer Shop in Mountain View Arkansas.  Name on label inside is Dwight Ladd.  Since I know little to nothing about mountain dulcimer builders, is this considered a vintage dulcimer?  Was Dwight Ladd a builder?  Does this go back to the start of McSpadden dulcimers at the Dulcimer Shop?  I'm considering buying a mountain dulcimer and looking at all options.  Just curious if a dulcimer like this one has a history?  Thanks.