I cannot recall any particular people that bought the dulcimers. The offerings were: 3 string, or 4 string in walnut, cherry or butternut. He preferred the 3 string. The sound holes were heart or diamond shaped.

I'm not sure where he got his woods - I know they were laminates and that is how he shaped them into the hourglass shape. His good friend, Paul Klann (still living) was helpful in the beginning. He owned/operated an organ production company (Klann Organ) in Waynesboro, VA. They shared lots of adventures (flying - dad was a naval pilot - and boating, and traveling). I imagine that is where he located his wood.   

He did make dozens of special instruments ("zebra" wood, burly maple, etc.) These were sold to people wanting special instruments. One of those just sold on Ebay (with a handwritten letter from dad). Stupid me didn't bid high enough, but the purchaser lives close by in Crozet, VA - he and I have been in contact.

Dad played very little . . . he was more of a vocalist. But the song I remember the most was "Go tell Aunt Rhody" - he had a special friend who recorded an album for him which was sold with the dulcimer (Paul Clayton) and produced by Folkway records. Paul died an untimely suspicious death in New York City. He had a cabin somewhere near Staunton and I remember visiting . .. very simple - he gave me a quill pen . . funny childhood memories.

My parents were indeed a unique team - they enjoyed many experiences other than the dulicmer corporation. They had a second home in Spain where good friends remain today. They built two cabins in the mountains close by where they spent a great deal of time -! They adored their dogs (mostly English and Irish Setters). Both listened to NPR constantly. Dad didn't talk about his WWII experiences much, but tearfully told some stories near the end of his life (his best buddy was killed). Dad was in the naval pilot's group that was the fore-runner to today's Blue Angels. He was a wine connesieur (left an amazing wine cellar).    Sounds like an extravagant life, but they were very simply people who lived to entertain their many friends (they both enjoyed gourmet cooking!). Well . . .enough of that.

Thanks for asking !