1938 Dickerson Tulip

February 5, 2020 • Geronimo "Geri" Valdriz • Instruments and Luthiers

Dickerson lap steels were made by Delbert Dickerson and are the precursors to Magnatone lap steels.

The earliest models had the distinct "tulip" shaped headstock. "Dickerson" is stamped on the metal pickup cover.

The entire body, neck, headstock, and pickup is covered with a greenish colored mother-of-toilet-seat (MOTS). MOTS is pearloid, a celluloid plastic that resembles mother of pearl and is used to cover toilet seats.

Sol Ho‘opii and Dick McIntire endorsed these early tulip head models. Collectors today also seek out their matching amps!