James Ashborn Parlor William Hall & Son 1840s Parlor 1840-1847 Shellac Project

You are looking at a rare opportunity to own a Pre-Civil War American built guitar with original coffin case!

Henry Ford gets all the credit for the assembly line production process but 60 + years earlier, James Ashborn's factory was cranking out innovative high quality instruments utilizing skilled woodworkers who were each assigned a specific task.

In 1851 (after nearly 2,000 guitars had been built) detailed production records, including serial numbers, were logged. The guitars were shipped, usually 12 at a time via train to New York where they were sold exclusively by two dealers.

The guitar in this listing is an early example of a James Ashborn Style 1 that was sold by William Hall & Son. Date of manufacture is sometime in the 1840s. It is a pre-serial number, partial address stamp guitar. Quite rare!!

As you can see from the pictures, the guitar is a restoration project. You will find several cracks in the top, one on each side and a few in the back. The neck joint appears solid and the neck is beautiful. I would consider dressing the frets. The original coffin case retains its hinges, handle and latches. The Ashborn tuners are original. I'm not 100% certain but the finish appears to be original. The bridge is missing. The guitar has all the glorious play-wear you'd hope to find in an instrument of this vintage.

All sales are final on this item so please ask questions before buying. No returns.