More information on two "Precious Jewels"...

You may have heard a tune called "Maybelle's Guitar And Monroe's Mandolin" by Robin & Linda Williams on Sunday's BG Cafe. This song is found on the Williams's most recent recording, "Buena Vista," and it tells a nice story about the Gibson L-5 guitar owned by Mother Maybelle Carter and Bill Monroe's Gibson F-5 Loar mandolin, and how the two instruments who served their respective owners so well for so many years are now in an exhibit side-by-side at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville. These instruments were purchased by the Hall of Fame a few years ago with funds that were acquired from a benefactor who turned out to be fraudulent. Now, the Hall of Fame is trying to raise funds to legally purchase these instruments, and they are actively seeking donations.

To read more about this story, click here for a recent article in Nashville's newspaper, The Tennessean, or here for an article posted on the Hall of Fame's website.

Obviously, these are not the best times for any organization to be searching for donations. However, if you are interested in seeing these instruments that have meant so much in the history of Bluegrass & Country Music in a place where they can continue to be admired by all, you may wish to contribute to the cause. Donations can be made online, with a major credit card by calling (615)416-2050, or by sending a check directly to the Hall of Fame at this address:

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

222 Fifth Avenue South

Mail Drop DP

Nashville, Tennessee 37203

Checks should be made out to the Country Music Foundation. Please specify Precious Jewel Fund.