Being a catter who lives one town away from this historic Luthier's shop , I thought it would be fun to ask if anyone has seen or heard of his work. In Gura and Bollmans book "The American Instument " they mention that Ashborn made more guitars in his few decades open (1840's and 50's )then Martin did in the whole 19th century . I would love to see one of his banjos. I did get up close and almost personal to one when that great show came to the Katonah New York Museum . Lots of glass in the way though . Ashborns work is very thought out , If I could spell sucinct I might use the word to discribe his thinking as a musical instrument designer .
                Anyway any stories here would be very interesting to read . All the best , Guy
There is someone making a remake of his famous early banjo . Have a look .
http://www.minstrelbanjo.com/Ashbornindex.html