I have a lap dulcimer which, according to the label inside was handmade by John Maxwell of Cookeville, Tennessee at the Upper Cumberland Craft Center. It is a pretty thing, 4 strings, figure-8 shaped. It has f-holes on the lower bouts, diamond-shaped holes on the upper bouts and a circular hole surrounded by very small circular holes partway down the fretboard. It has friction pegs of what appears to be maple (the body is a darker wood, I'm not sure what).

Does anyone know of this dulcimer maker? Is he still alive and building? A Google search has turned up nothing of use so far, but I found the website for a band one member of which has a Maxwell dulcimer that his parents traded a few cans of paint for. I've emailed him to see if he has any more info and to let him know that there are at least one other Maxwell dulcimer at large.

Any information would be greatly appreciated.

jeffp