Since 1973, Wildwood Banjo Co. has been quietly building fine Traditional & Bluegrass banjos in Arcata, California. In spring of 2008, the shop was relocated to Bend, Oregon and continues the tradition of building great banjos.
Wildwood Banjos are hand made from the finest figured maples, walnuts, and exotic hardwoods available. From the traditional simplicity of the MINSTREL to the ornate design of the SOLOIST, we offer a well balanced range of banjos in styles for the traditional frailing and clawhammer style players, and classic powerful bluegrass banjos for 3 finger pickers. The blend of old world craftsmanship and modern technology helps produce banjos of unequalled quality.
Choosing an instrument is a very personal experience. When you choose a Wildwood, you have chosen an instrument that will become in intimate part of your musical pursuits. If you feel the need for something special, something a bit more personal, or have specific artistic interests that you would like to incorporate in your banjo –please feel free to discuss this with us. To see some examples of some of what’s possible, take a look at the new Portfolio section.
Business survives on its reputation. For the past 35 years, satisfied customers have been the most honest form of advertising. The unsolicited Testimonials section is a tribute to our efforts.
Production is limited to maintain the highest in quality control, while keeping a personal approach to business. The experience of buying a Wildwood Banjo should be almost as enjoyable as playing it. Choosing an instrument of this quality is an investment in pleasure, enjoyment, and value. If there are questions not answered in the web site please send an email for a prompt response.
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Wildwood Banjo Co. was founded by Mark Platin officially in 1973. Before that, Mark worked as an apprentice in Santa Monica, Ca. with the talented Ren Ferguson (employed with Gibson Guitars in Bozeman, Mt. as a major force in the acoustic development division). After the informal apprenticeship with Ren, Mark worked for the Dobro Guitar Co. in Long Beach, Ca. for brothers Ed and Rudy Dopera. A personal thanks to both Ren Ferguson and the Dobro Guitar company for their willingness to mentor, and for their encouragement to develop my interests in building banjos.
