[Dixielandjazz] Washboard Cental

[Lowell Busching]

Bob Ringwald posted the direct email address for the CEO of the Columbus 
Washboard Co. in Logan, Ohio (est 1895 so no wash by night outfit!). In 
the event that he, or Bill Gunter, or one of the other list mates has 
not published the companies toll free hot line number, here it is.

1-800-343-7967  Web address http://www.columbuswashboard.com

Even though they are the last surviving American Washboard company, they 
have had to diversify from their old "Maid=Rite" "family" washboards 
made with the corrugated Brass metal to include ones for the tourists 
and serious musicians, called "Rhythm Boards". They even spell it right! 
  These have the smooth ribs like I believe the slip over Cajun ones. 
Straps are extra.  Various other none standard sizes also available for 
wall hangs etc.

Logan is in a very nice area of Ohio so if any of you are touring the 
area you might want to check out the old factory and pick up an 
"instrument" for your collection. I know they would like that. Try to 
make it during the festival that Bob mentioned.  Although they try to 
get bands that use a washboard, at least occasionally, they are not 
limited to that type of band the whole weekend. All Gunter all the time 
might be a bit much.  Sorry Bill. Nothing personal.

Just get a set of thimbles and you are on your way to stardom.

Mad Dawg