Expert: Al Dzina - 10/7/2006

Question
I was givin a violin from within the family.  I was wondering where to have it repaired and if you can tell me anything about it.  

Inside the Violin is marked
"Antoniaus Stradivarius Cremonenfis      
Faciebat Anno 17   Jackson-Guldan Violin Co.  Columbis, Ohio"

I also have the case which is fuzzy blue inside.  We were talking about letting one of the grandchildren play it if they are interested.  Would this be something I should do - or should it just be displayed.

Thank you so much in advance - please reference your response "Violin" so I dont accidently delete it.

Lori

Answer
Hi Lori;
Tell me where you live and I might be able to guide you to a repair shop.
The violin was most likely made in Germany and was imported by the Jackson Guldan Violin Co. of Columbus, Ohio, during the 1940-1960 time frame.
Make sure to have your grandchild measured, so they play the correct violin size. No, do not display the instrument, it was made to be played.
Al;