Here is a chance for you to explore the world of Ed Stilley, one of the Ozark's quintessential folk artists and a most photogenic living treasure. You'll also get to hear Ed play and sing, preach and whistle! Ed and his passion for instrument making are the subject of the Still on the Hill song "Take me to the Other Side" from the new Ozark CD. He made close to 200 one-of-a-kind instruments, such as the ones you will see in this slide show, and gave them to children.
His instruments share certain distinctive characteristics ~ all are hewn from local rough-sawed wood with free form shapes. There is always an assortment of metallic objects mounted inside (saw blades, springs, chainsaw sprockets...) The frets are made from bits of brazing rods, the nut and saddles are made from whatever bones are left from their dinner table, and inscribed on each are the words: "True faith, true light, have faith in God."
A visit to Ed's home in Hog Scald Holler is like going back in time. We hope this slide show and soundtrack gives you a deeper understanding about our Ozark project and why it is so important to us to keep these stories alive!
Photo by Samantha Parton