JOHN G. KRIENITZ, FLINT HILLS LUTHIER

JOHN G. KRIENITZ
1864-1946
John Krienitz was an Alma, Kansas, based luthier, musician, and music teacher, whose instruments have found their way into the hands of musicians around the world. He was also my great-great-great-uncle. These are the three violins (and one really neat little ukulele) that found their way to me and my dad. The first, is the only one with a lable—it reads "No.55, 1906." The one with the ornate inlay was a gift to me from my friend Virginia Czirr. It belonged to her aunt, Alice Johnson. Small world that it is, Alice is my goddaughter, Campbell Claflin's, great-great-aunt. My grandfather helped John cut the walnut for the back of the third example. I remember him pointing out the stump once. The ukulele was a gift to him from John—probably around 1928 or so. Perhaps in exchange for his help? Several of John's violins are in the permanent collection of the Wabaunsee County Historical Society and Museum in Alma.

In 1987, Orville Saffry self-published a series of recollections. One of these, "The Character House," is about John, his mother, and the unique home that they shared.

If you have one of John's violins, I would love to see it! Mark@MarkFeiden.com