GH&S 'MARVEL' BANJO.

[IAN SALTER]

I have just purchased a George Houghton 'Marvel' 5 string banjo and intend to collect it next week. The only information I have about it is from a very knowledgeable banjo collector, who is a mutual friend of myself and the seller. He told me that it was made by Houghton as a budget instrument (the reason I was interested in buying it), probably between 1900 and 1910 and that it has a 10" head and a 23" scale length. He also said it sounds fabulous. Internet searches have revealed no further information, so although I imagine it's unlikely, if anyone can tell me anything more, I would appreciate it.

[IAN SALTER]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/lXUAAeSw3KFoqzqp/s-l1600.webp

[IAN SALTER]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/fFEAAeSwdtdoqzqp/s-l1600.webp

[IAN SALTER]

https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/t7AAAeSwnfRoqzrZ/s-l1600.webp

[Jody Stecher]

Whoa! only 6  hooks and brackets tightening the head.  Will you tune this to C tuning or higher?

[IAN SALTER]

I'll change the strings to my usual gut and wound silk, then try tuning to C although, A=440 is not necessary, so I'll tune it to where it sounds ok.