Blackwell Mandolin - Looking for Info

[Hockey Puck]

Hi All,

I recently acquired an F5 with Blackwell on the headstock. There is no label or other markings. Does anyone have any info or ideas on its origin?

It has some bumps and bruises, but the overall condition is sound and the frets are great. Once I gave it a thorough cleaning, set the bridge height and intonation, it played and sounded very good.

I'll try to post photos.

Thanks for any info you can share.

[jim simpson]

Nice looking mandolin, the name inlay looks very neat and tidy. I'm thinking a one-off or one that was made for someone named Blackwell (Kenny Blackwell?).
I take it the seller didn't have any info?

[Hockey Puck]

Thanks Jim. The seller had no info and Googling didn't yield any info.

It probably is a one-off, though Mr/Ms Blackwell was pretty talented - it is pretty well made, fit and finish are really good.

[Hockey Puck]

I appreciate Jim weighing in!

Just a bump to see if anyone has info on the origin of this Blackwell mandolin.

Thanks!

[Tommcgtx]

There is a thread from 2004/2005 mentioning Kenny Blackwell here:

https://www.mandolincafe.com/forum/t...Dorian-Michael

Kenny is one of the most amazing and versatile mandolin players I have ever met...... with solid Bluegrass credentials as well....Kenny is mando player with Laurel Canyon Ramblers and has worked on many California bluegrass recordings. Go see Kenny if you have a chance...you won't be disappointed. Also one of the best luthiers in the business!

So maybe he made it? I emailed him from his website contact page and sent a link to this thread.

[Hockey Puck]

Great catch! The last line "one of the best luthiers in the business" sure is something to go on. I hope he responds.

Thank you for going above and beyond Tommcgtx!

[Tommcgtx]

So I guess that isn't one of his. He said he's only built a dozen or so electric mandolins.