A fiddle belonging to musician Skip Gorman of Grafton, NH, was
stolen from the lobby of the Bluegrass Museum in Owensboro KY on
the evening of Fri. Sept. 11th. That weekend I was an instructor
at the Monroe Style Mandolin Camp held at the museum. The police
were alerted and a detective Payne has been on the case. The
number of the Owensboro Police Dept. is 270 687-8888. Or call Skip
Gorman at 603 523-7661; cell: 603 667-1572 or
email: skip@skipgorman.com

This fiddle is very near and dear to me. It was a gift from a dear
friend. The fiddle has several distinctive markings and was
German-made:

1. A silver or pewter heart is inlaid in the upper fingerboard (on
the front of the neck). The heart is somewhat
visible just under my fingers.
2. Both the f-holes are odd-shaped (with little teeth marks) due to
the fiddle having been home to mice prior to its rescue
3. The upper right side of the front of the fiddle contains a
unique pattern in the wood, almost like a knot.

The fiddle was in a blue hard case that contained two bows, tune
lists and a thoughtful letter gifting the fiddle to me.

The fiddle was given to me by my good friend, JD Rhynes, of
California, several years ago. JD had rescued it from a barn -- and
it has turned out to be my favorite fiddle -- with a wonderful
sound and a very unusual look that is perfect for my old-time
cowboy performances. I look forward to its return. Laurie Lewis had
graduated the top.
Many, many thanks to all,
Your good pard,
Skip