Banjo

Enslaved Africans introduced the banjo to North America in the mid-eighteenth century. In the following years, the banjo became an integral part of American musical culture. Embraced by musicians of all backgrounds, the banjo became a staple of entertainment and was featured in various settings, from riverboats to the parlor. For more formal occasions, “fancy” banjos like this one were produced.

As indicated by the stamp on the peg head, this banjo was made by Harry Ceylon Tallmadge. Tallmadge maintained a shop in Cincinnati on Vine Street for nearly a decade.