My two passions are woodworking and messing around with stringed instruments. So it was only natural that I would eventually combine the two and begin making stringed instruments. I started out restoring vintage banjos back in the 80’s. One day in 2005 I came across a dulcimer that needed restoring. I took it completely apart and studied its construction. I was hooked, and I have been building instruments ever since. Eventually I made some ukuleles, and then added mandolins. I have also built a few guitars along the way. I am interested in renaissance instruments and have built a few of those as well. 

I chose the name “Cripple Creek Mandolins” when I was living and building instruments in Colorado. Currently I am located in west Georgia. There is also a Cripple Creek in Virginia, so I guess the name travels well. Lately I have been labeling my ukuleles as simply “hanson”.

Most of my instruments are “one off” originals built to the customer’s specifications. 

Enjoy the pictures below, and maybe we can build one together some day.