George P. Matthews 5-String Open Back Banjo

The label on this banjo has the logo for Barnett Samuel and Sons but it was made by George P. Matthews.

Barnett Samuel & Sons were one of the largest musical instrument wholesalers in the UK. They were selling banjos as early as 1870 and began manufacturing their own in the early 1900s. Their own brand of “Dulcet” banjo bears the BS initials within an orchestral triangle and beater usually with the words “Trademark” beneath.

George P. Matthews was a prolific banjo maker based in Birmingham, England, active mainly from the late 19th century into the early 20th century. Matthews crafted a wide variety of banjos, including seven-string and fretless models, many of which feature distinctive design elements such as mother-of-pearl inlays and brass hardware. His instruments are well regarded for their quality and craftsmanship, and examples continue to be restored and collected by enthusiasts today.

Matthews was known for stamping his instruments with the mark “Geo. P Matthews, Maker, Birmingham,” indicating their origin and authenticity. Banjo historians and collectors note that Matthews produced a significant number of banjos between about 1880 and 1920, making him one of the more notable figures in England’s historical banjo manufacture.

This instrument is stamped on the reverse of the dowel stick confirming its a Matthews banjo. Style indicates its a 1920/30s banjo with spun-over rim, mahogany neck and ebony fingerboard. The neck angle has been adjusted to make it playable to modern practitioners. Guitar style tuners have been returned to a more contemporary (for the age) friction tuners. Steel strings replaced with La Bella 17 Nylon. Calfskin head replaced with new Clifford Essex one.

Scale length is 27".