By Tish Williams
Enquirer contributor

WAYNESVILLE - Two hundred years ago, the famed English writer Samuel Coleridge wrote poetically about "a damsel with a dulcimer who was an Abyssinian maid."

Two centuries later, there are still many Tristaters with a dulcimer. Sally S. Smith of Waynesville is among local devotees of the small instrument made simply of three strings stretched over a rectangular box constructed of anything from cardboard to expensive woods such as walnut and cherry.

Since moving to this northern Warren County village 12 years ago, she has taught dozens of children and adults to play the instrument. Her own interest began four years ago when her husband, Fred, gave her a dulcimer for Christmas.

"Actually, it's one of the easiest musical instruments to learn," Mrs. Smith said. "You don't have to read music. ... Simply, you can play by number or by ear."

Dulcimer Friends of Caesar Creek is a group of about 20 people of all ages who meet at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month in the Waynesville Cultural and Heritage Center. Members come from Dayton, Springboro, Loveland and Fairfield, Mrs. Smith said.

Similar groups exist in southeast Ohio and Kentucky.

"Although we give concerts, have festivals and play for all kinds of civic groups; we don't consider ourselves professional musicians," Mrs. Smith said. "We simply love the instrument and enjoy the friendships we make. Our sessions usually include a singalong."

The music, she said, is reminiscent of Appalachia, "where we think the dulcimer originated in this county. It probably was brought here in the early 1800s by immigrants from Scotland."

Most popular types of music are traditional fiddle tunes, Celtic tunes, old gospel and favorites from Stephen Foster.

The dulcimer is small, packs easily and sits comfortably on the player's lap. The instrument can cost less than $100 or as much at $1,000, depending on materials and embellishments.

Mrs. Smith's fellow dulcimer players include student Sharol Frederick, also of Waynesville.

The two met at the Waynesville Farmer's Market, where Mrs. Smith often played her dulcimer.

"I needed a new interest and soon was so involved I began playing at nursing homes, church and for children," said Ms. Frederick. "I still take lessons in Sally's class at Countryside YMCA in Lebanon."

Mrs. Smith said dulcimer music encourages the continuing growth and interest in traditional music.

"Preserving old-time music is important to our heritage," she said. "As we explore the music, we think back to pioneer days, through the Civil War and into the 20th century. It's really a history lesson."

If you play the dulcimer, are interested in learning or joining a group, e-mail Mrs. Smith at: sally@pickersporch.com or call 897-0654.