I'm not an instrument historian but I suspect the hammered dulcimer and plucked psaltery must be related on some level. The hammered dulcimer originated in the middle east and versions of it are found all over the world.There is a heavy duty concert version from Hungary called a cimbalom, complete with foot pedals, that looked a lot like Bob Beers Psaltery, to the best of my recollection. On another level the Fox Hollow Festival which Bob ran on his farm in N.Y. state was a launching pad for the revival of the hammered dulcimer, with people like Bill Spence, Walt Michaels and others. It just occurred to me that Bill Spence might know some particulars about BoB's Psaltery. They appeared to be friends and Bill was a craftsman as well as musician. He is associated with Andy's Front Hall and the Old Song Festival, A really Great traditional music fest near Albany,N.Y in June.Both have Websites. I'd love to hear any anecdotes about the Fox Hollow festival or the BeerS or Boyer families. Kat-tell me about your bowed lap dulcimer.That"s a new one on me.