Kumalae Style 2 Ukulele - Hawaii c.1913

Here is an early c.1913 Jonah Kumalae soprano ukulele, representing one of the scarce pre–“Gold Award” period instruments from one of the most prolific and historically important early Hawaiian ukulele makers. Kumalae began advertising his instruments as early as 1911, and while his production increased significantly after 1918, examples from this earlier era are notably rare and highly sought after by collectors due to their limited output and distinct construction characteristics.

This example is identified primarily through its original “cigar-label” style internal marking located on the base of the instrument, which places it firmly within the early 1910s production period. It also features an early Bergstrom Music Co. decal on the rear of the headstock, referencing one of Hawaii’s oldest music retailers and further supporting its historical provenance. Instruments from this timeframe often exhibit slightly larger overall dimensions compared to later Kumalae soprano models, reflecting the evolving standardisation of ukulele design during the pre-1920s Hawaiian music boom.

At the time of its construction, the Hawaiian ukulele industry was still in its formative stages, with only a small number of builders operating before the global popularity surge that would follow later in the decade. As a result, instruments from this era are often considered highly individual in character, with subtle variations in build and specification.

This ukulele remains in original condition and is accompanied by its original canvas case, further enhancing its collectability and historical integrity.

Specifications:

Year: 1913
Rarity: Early pre-1915 “Gold Award” era ukulele (exceedingly scarce)
Identification: Seldom seen “cigar-label” on bottom of instrument (sole identifier)
Dimensions: Slightly larger than later Kumalae soprano models
Production Context: Built before major production increase around 1918
Headstock Marking: Early Bergstrom Music Co. decal on rear of headstock (“oldest Music Store in Hawaii”)
Historical Context: Built during early Hawaiian music era prior to worldwide ukulele craze; considered one-off instruments
Case: Original canvas case included