Well, I’ve spent most of the day looking for a photo I should have a copy of… and looking for it in a book… and on the internet. I give up because I know many of you will just email me a copy after I post this!
I helped Johnny clear out more of his basement… and by cleaning, I mean just taking treasures home to my house.
I didn’t get to take this home, but I was very happy to be with Johnny when he rediscovered it in his basement.
This is an old tater bug mandolin, owned by his great uncle, Oscar Hoback. Uncle Oscar was known for having the ability to play multiple instruments. I was hoping to find the photo of the “band” … please send it to me and I will repost it. I wonder if any of them were playing this beautiful instrument!?
Isn’t it just beautiful???
It does have a few cracks, but it sure doesn’t take away from its overall beauty. Yes, it’s named after the potato bug… google it and you will understand why!
This old tater bug mandolin, cherished by his great uncle, Oscar Hoback, carries echoes of a bygone era, each strum a tribute to tradition and familial connection. Its weathered surface whispers stories of the past, resonating with heartfelt melodies.
A very nice article. I read already. It surprised me. Thank you so much for sharing this with us.
https://flamencowithrafael.com/learn-flamenco-guitar/flamenco-guitar-chords
That is very interesting — I have never seen nor heard of a mandolin like that. It is so cool!
I have seen that in person! Had not thought of Oscar and Maggie for a long time. He taught me to play pinochle before I ever went to school……..first two handed and then four. He used to stay with my folks after he didn’t work anymore but Maggie was still employed. I think she was probably cooking at a ranch some where.
Oh Boy, does it ever look like a potato bug!! Beautiful old mandolin, with what I’ll bet is a fascinating history!