Montana’s Gibson Guitar Celebrates 100 Years Of Flattops

I've always been taken back by the guitar. From a young age, I knew I wanted to learn how to play, and that began a life long love/hate relationship with the instrument.

Many Montanans might not be aware that some of the best acoustic guitars in the world are made here in Big Sky Country and have been since 1988. Gibson Guitars builds all of their acoustic models in Bozeman at their plant. From the legendary J-45, to the SJ-200 and everything in between, including special models are Montana made.

READ MORE: Here are 5 ways Montanans can make tourists feel at home here in Big Sky Country.

What does that mean? Well, it means that if you buy a Gibson acoustic guitar, it was made by the same folks that make guitars for the "stars".

I bring this up because Gibson is celebrating a big milestone. 100 years of the flat top guitar. The company was founded by Orville Gibson back in 1902 and let's just say Orville was a stickler for detail. Why is that important? It's important because Gibson's are built to a certain standard, and the acoustic guitars come a lifetime warranty.

I was lucky enough to tour the Gibson factory here in Bozeman a few years ago and was like a kid in a candy store. The level of skill that goes into each guitar is really something to behold. Much of the guitar is crafted by hand, so no two guitars are the same, however, what they are, is a work of art.

How is Gibson celebrating?

With the 100 year anniversary, it just so happens that Gibson has a limited run of 5 guitars to celebrate including the J-45, SJ-200, the Dove, and the Hummingbird, all made in the Bozeman factory.

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As a Montanan and a guitar player, I would just like to say congrats on the 100 years, and here's to 100 more.