The Ugly Stick

The ugly stick is a traditional Newfoundland musical instrument.

Most are made from common household items, such as a mop handle with bottle caps, tin cans, small bells and other noise makers.

The instrument is played with a drum stick and has a distinctive sound.

In older time it was common in outports and remote villages to attend social gatherings such as concerts, mummering and kitchen parties, were an important part of the rural culture. This is believed to be where the ugly stick originated.