mystery instrument

[Lee]

I was on my thinking chair this afternoon (930 Case),and thinking.In the mid to late 90's at the Nelson building,there was an gentleman that was playing something I had never seen before.He was seated and he would jig this "thing".It looked like a wood puppet and the feet would move.It is hard to describe but have always wondered if this was one of a kind or something that was popular long,long ago.Just curious.

PS. Can you bring back the bagpiper?

[Kenronsberg]

Lee,
The gentelmans name is Earl Manny. I haven't seen him for quite some time. The little dancing guy had a name although I don't recall what it was. Earl was no kid, and the little dancing fella was a high school wood shop project. He also played the wash tub.
Ken

[Lee]

Thanks for the reply.It seems like a long time ago but it sure was fun watching him on stage.

[Keith Johnson]

That wooden puppet was a "limberjack". These originated in the appalacian mountains along with their style of old time music. You can do a search for limberjack and find out more.

[M Kerkvliet]

He also played the wash tub.
Ken

I'm sure it wasn't the same guy, but there was a guy in Peasant Valley one of the nights I was down there who was playing a wash tub. First time I have ever seen on up close, or heard one! Kind of cool... I think I could master one of those.

I also heard the bag piper from across the lake in Lower Lutefisk. I think he was playing amazing grace.

[slugger]

here is an example of a limberjack
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPDxNQuyt1s&feature=related