Jon W. The reason I stated 1842 is because after that point there is no question about what the Banjo configuation was. Yes, Sweeney predates the Virginia Minstrels but to When?? I don't consider the info on that web-page to be a good de-bunk. The point has been oft repeated but I wonder if those who do have looked at that plantation painting mentioned. I've seen it and it doesn't for sure look definately like it's most certainly a drone string to me! I find it questionable, not real proof. Maybe somebody had it "computer image enhanced"....