Josef Novotny?

[mojoluthier]

I recently acquired, as a trade in, a CZ flatback in rough condition. I have the back off (way too easy) and the top upper bout loose. I have taken out the bogus construction plywood cleats as well as a couple of square feet of 10 OZ canvas! The neck was out of line and the back needs a piece scarfed on to the inside to replace the button. In the end I expect it to be a decent instrument, if somewhat rough cosmetically. I have here a picture of the label, and I wonder what anyone can tell me about this basses historical back ground. And what the heck does the date read?

[mojoluthier]

I am deeper into this bass than I have gone into one previously, and am surprised to find myself enjoying the process. I am replacing some plate material both top and back, and 3 of the 4 back braces had to come out, 2 are back in. The tail block was cracked so it is now out, and it was holding the ribs (long) apart causing the top cracks to be unable to close. This is alleged to be the long time bass of the "Sons of the Pioneers" and to be worth the trouble despite it's otherwise modest pedigree. The neck was so skewed that the bridge almost had a foot in the bass side ff hole! I do wish someone could tell me anything about the maker.