![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() ![]() Let’s talk about ornamentation: This banjo has a simple scalloped headstock shape (5 symmetrical scallops) with a stained pearwood headplate veneer that proffers one large five-pointed star. Another factoid is that the non-Electric versions of these models were actually quite similar, differing only in their level of ornamentation. Just so you know, the A C Fairbanks models introduced during this early period were: Electric in 1890 Curtis Electric in late 1890 the Imperial Electric in 1891 the Columbian in 1891 the Senator arrived in 1892 the Special was first seen in 1894 and the Regent in 1895. Fifteen brass rods extend from the brass ring to the spun-over round metal hoop, just as in the regular Electric. The Curtis Electric model’s tone ring consisted of a square brass ring that sets above the wooden hoop. Fairbanks' son of the same name, who is said to have been a banjo prodigy. And then there is perhaps the least often seen variation in the Electric Series - the “Curtis Electric,” named for A. In early versions the metal assembly is contained in a slim metal sheath which is then spun over the outside of the rim. The fabled Electric tone ring is made in the form of a scalloped metal truss which resides at the top of the wooden pot and abuts a round metal ring. This new beguiling brass bulwark of banjo-playing brawn added sustain and brilliance to the tone of the instrument and, to this day, is a highly respected and often imitated method of construction. The “Electric” tone ring (named after the chief consumer item of the time - if you could afford it - electricity in the home and office (and for streetlamps). Stewart by having a new tone ring (Pat’d Dec. That same year Fairbanks debuted his new “Electric” model, which differed from the banjos of their main competitor, S. continued to stamp them “Fairbanks & Cole” much to the chagrin of Mr. Cole ended their partnership, each starting his own company – yet on many instruments A.C. This section on Background has been paraphrased from an article called “Fairbanks Banjos: Construction and Tone Rings.” In the year 1890, Messrs. For more information about Fairbanks banjos and their history, we have turned to a website called /~fairbankspages. It is so legendary that Mike Ramsey of Chanterelle Banjos has named one of his own outstanding new banjos “Curtis Fairbanks” to commemorate it. The Fairbanks “Curtis Electric” model banjo is very beautiful and exceptionally rare - in our 44 years in business we have not found or offered any others. #14511, with a newer hard shell case to be provided. ![]()
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