1882 C.F. Zimmerman Autoharp

The C.F. Zimmermann autoharp, patented in 1882 by German-born American inventor Charles F. Zimmermann, represents a significant development in the evolution of chorded zithers. Zimmermann's design introduced a mechanism that allowed players to mute specific strings selectively, facilitating the playing of chords without the need for finger placement on individual strings. This innovation was a departure from earlier zither designs and contributed to the autoharp's popularity in the late 19th century.