By Linda Ratcliff
The Barlow knife design dates back 400 years, and is a type of folding pocket knife that features double or single blades that open at one end only. The knife-style bears the name of a man named Barlow of Sheffield, England, one of the earliest and most famous makers. This knife has been in the back pocket of Americans since the beginning, and its dependable design and minimalistic features make it a classic to own. Fifty years ago, you could buy one for $2.00, but they cost quite a bit more today.
The song about the Barlow knife is an old-time southern Appalachian tune that is credited to the music of Henry Reed (Glen Lyn, VA), who called the tune “Cabin Creek,” and Franklin George (Bluefield, WV), who knew it as Barlow Knife. The tune is usually played as an instrumental, with perhaps one verse only sung.
Steve & Vi playing Barlow Knife on the streets of Fort Collins
In this lesson, Steve Eulberg teaches hammered dulcimer players how to play the melody, backup, and harmony for Barlow Knife. Enjoy this video with Vi “The Fiddler” Wickam and Steve Eulberg playing Barlow Knife together. You can clearly hear the twin harmony in the arrangement. Barlow Knife is included on their Fiddle Whamdiddle CD.
Happy dulcimering,
Linda
Linda
