Gibson Acoustic Guitar History
Orville Gibson designed his first arch-top acoustic guitar in the late 1890s. Thirty years later, there was the introduction of the L-1, a flat-top guitar that took the company to new heights. Gibson remains an iconic producer of guitars today.
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Orville Gibson Invents the Arch-Top Guitar
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After company founder Orville Gibson introduced the arch-top guitar in the 1890s, he was unable to meet demand in his one-man workshop and sold the name in 1902.
First Flat-Top
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Gibson released the L-1 flat-top guitar in 1926. Basically a beginner's guitar, the L-1 proved popular with amateurs of all stripes, as well as a few country and western artists.
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Nick Lucas Model
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In 1928 Gibson signed recording star Nick Lucas. The Nick Lucas model resembled the L-1 but was constructed to provide better tone and playability.
Decline
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Trying to capitalize on the folk boom of the late '50s and early '60s, Gibson changed many models, with a marked decline in the quality of sound. A height-adjustable bridge deadened the sound. Stronger tops served to further dampen resonance.
A New Start in Montana
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Gibson bought the Montana-based Flatiron Mandolin Co. in 1987. Mandolin production eventually moved to Gibson's Nashville plant, while the Flatiron crew successfully reestablished Gibson as a force in acoustic guitars, producing reproductions of classics as well as custom guitars.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit guitar image by April K from Fotolia.com
