Thanks, everyone! I'm certainly enjoying trying to pick and chord on this one -- very different from the 19th-century repros! (But, in truth, I love 'em all!)

Just gorgeous. I saw a simple art-and-crafts style house in our village from the 1920s i think that has a chestnut staircase. The wood was breathtaking, such a beautiful color and grain. The great old chestnut trees that used to be so common....

That's a beautiful instrument. Enjoy.

Ken

"The dulcimer sings a sweet song."

That is a beauty Manda Panda. Congrats.

You've got a special instrument, indeed-- that old Chestnut wood can produce incredible sound.  And that Galax holds a special place in your heart makes it all even more special.

Thank you, thank you! Tom Barr, of Galax, VA, built this one. He's been building them for decades. The wood was reclaimed from an RJ Reynold's building just over the NC border. It's wormy chestnut from a tree that probably died in the 1850s. The Galax leaf design at the top is a common design Mr. Barr uses. 

Galax has always been a special place for my family. We visit often. I was just tickled to be able to get #345 for myself! The 6 1/2 fret is a game-changer for me!

Whoa, that wood grain is cool!  Who built your new instrument? 

This is such a beauty! Please, tell us more about it!