Don-

My remark about the presence or absence of wooden dowels connecting the neck to the pot was only in reference to S. S. Stewart banjos. Their presence is one essential element in accessing the age of such banjos. The wooden rod was replaced with metal rods some time in the early 1900's, along with many other structural changes which make the resulting banjos of less interest to me. I do admire other brands of banjos but I'm addicted to the pre-1900 Stewarts.

Glad you've enjoyed my recordings!

Cheerily,
Charley Noble