NMM 2531.  Harp-guitar by Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Company, Kalamazoo, 1916. Style U (18-3/4").  Serial number 30907.  Factory order number 3125. Arne B. Larson Collection, 1979. This 1916 harp-guitar bears the customized, engraved initials of an early owner on the pick guard. The letters CEF appear inside a circle surrounded on each side by sprigs, engraving work that looks professionally done. The instrument also bears rhinestones inlaid in the pillar and the fingerboard. Front, Side, and Back Views Note: Click on any major structural area of the front or back to see a close-up of that area. Soundhole and Label Click on label to see a larger image. Patent Date on Pickguard Support Neck Heel Original Tuning Wrench Literature:  Joseph R. Johnson, Mandolin Clubs and Orchestras in the United States (1880-1920): Their Origin, History and Instruments, M.M. Thesis (Vermillion: University of South Dakota, 1987), pp. 66-68, 143. Joseph R. Johnson, "The Mandolin Orchestra in America, Part 3: Other Instruments," American Lutherie, Vol. 21 (Spring 1990), pp. 50-51. Joseph R. Johnson, "The Mandolin Orchestra in America," The Big Red Book of American Lutherie Volume Two, 1988-1990, (Tacoma, Washington: Guild of American Luthiers, 2000), pp. 274-276. Return to Gibson Acoustic Guitar Checklist National Music Museum The University of South Dakota 414 East Clark Street Vermillion, SD 57069 ©National Music Museum, 2005 Most recent update: October 23, 2007 You are the 5,155th visitor to this page since May 23, 2005 The University of South Dakota Return to Top of Page