The state of Virginia has long been associated with the banjo and its music. With so many notable banjo players claiming Virginia as their home or birthplace, and the fact that it is the home of Stelling Banjo Works, it seems appropriate to have a banjo called the Virginian. This model features the Virginia state bird, the cardinal, on the peghead, and the Virginia state flower, the dogwood blossom, on the fingerboard. The abalone shell used for the cardinals is selected for the most striking colors to reflect the natural beauty of these lovely birds. Other features include abalone trim and fancy curly maple on the neck and resonator.
Inasmuch as Virginia and North Carolina share the same state flower, the dogwood blossom, and the same state bird, the cardinal, we will be happy to offer a Carolinian version of this banjo, at the buyer’s request. A simple engraving change on the nameplate is all that is needed.
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Photos courtesy of Jim Young
After all, both Virginia and North Carolina have claim to many of America’s finest banjo players: Don Reno, Bill Emerson, James Bailey, Murphy and Casey Henry, Joel Sweeney (acclaimed inventor of the 5-string banjo), and others from Virginia; Earl Scruggs, Smith Hammett, Snuffy Jenkins, Raymond Fairchild, and many others from North Carolina. Apologies to all the fine pickers who were not mentioned due to space limitations.
The Virginian / The Carolinian
Wood: Shaded Curly Maple
Plating: Nickel
Price: Call for availability and price.
The Virginian Deluxe / The Carolinian Deluxe
Wood: Shaded Curly Maple
Plating: Gold/Engr.
Price: Call for availability and price.
Plating, engraving and other options available. All models feature the Tony Pass 600TS Old Wood Rim and a deluxe TKL emerald green crushed velvet plush lined case. Left-handed, tenor, or plectrum versions of most models are available. Check dealer for price. Deluxe versions of the Crusader, Master’s Cross, Red Fox, SwallowTail and Virginian (all with special engraving patterns unique to each model) are available with custom plating upon request.
To purchase, please consult our Authorized Dealer List.
If there is no authorized dealer local to you or you wish to order a Carolinian, please contact Stelling Banjo Works directly.
Stelling Banjo Works
7258 Banjo Lane
Afton, Virginia 22920
Email: stelling@stellingbanjo.com
Please Note: We are closing down the business and no longer have shop hours.