Small in size but rich in sound, this nonprofit museum celebrates a unique instrument!
Tucked along State Street in Trenton sits a delightfully unexpected attraction: the National Dulcimer Museum. This nonprofit museum celebrates a unique American instrument, keeping its gentle melodies alive. Whether you’re a lifelong musician, casual history buff, or simply looking for something wonderfully different to do, this stop invites you to slow down and listen.
Celebrating an American Folk Instrument
The mountain dulcimer is often called America’s friendliest instrument. It's easy to learn, warm in tone, and rooted in Appalachian tradition. Brought to the region by Scottish and Irish immigrants, the instrument became a staple of front-porch gatherings and family music-making across rural America.
Inside the museum, you’ll find a surprisingly extensive collection; more than 140 American folk instruments, showcasing both craftsmanship and creativity.
Visitors can discover vintage mountain dulcimers dating to back to the 1900s, a dulcimer hall of fame, and even a washtub bass. The collection even includes instruments once owned by well-known dulcimer performer Kevin Roth. Every piece tells a story of handmade ingenuity!
More Than a Museum
The museum is part of the American Folk Music School, whose mission goes beyond preserving history. The organization offers free lessons, loaner instruments, and performances for people of all ages and abilities. It's more than a museum, it's a living music community.
n a fast-paced world, the dulcimer represents something refreshing: music made for enjoyment, not perfection. The instrument was historically played on porches, at gatherings, and around kitchen tables — and that same welcoming spirit defines the museum today.
Plan your Visit
The museum hosts regular open hours and special visiting opportunities throughout the month: Tuesdays by appointment only and the second Saturday of every month, from 1pm - 5pm.
If you’re searching for experiences you won’t find anywhere else, this is one of them: a peaceful atmosphere, handcrafted instruments, and music that has carried through generations.
Visit The National Dulcimer Museum
215 E State Street | Trenton, Ohio
Open Tuesdays by appointment only + Second Saturday of every month, 1pm - 5pm
