Civil War-Era Parlor Guitar Circa 1860’s

Civil War-Era Parlor Guitar Circa 1860’s - Inventory Number: MUS 202

This small-bodied parlor guitar dates to the time of the American Civil War and would have been a popular personal instrument among soldiers and civilians alike. Lightweight and portable, instruments like this were carried in camps and played around fires, offering moments of comfort and camaraderie amid the hardships of war.

Made of solid wood with gut or early steel strings, this guitar shows significant wear, including cracks and missing parts, but retains its historical character. The slotted headstock and simple rosette design are typical of mid-19th century American guitars, often sold through catalogs or by regional luthiers.

Music played a powerful role during the Civil War, with songs of home, hope, and unity providing solace for those in battle. This well-worn guitar stands as a quiet witness to the lives and emotions of those who lived through that defining era.

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Inventory Number: MUS 202