Smithsonian Collections

Chet Atkin’s Haile Guitar

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Data Source
National Museum of American History
Description (Brief)
Hascal Haile of Tompkinsville, Kentucky made this guitar in 1972. Hascal "Hack" Haile (1906-1986) began making guitars professionally after retiring from furniture making in the late 1960s. He made guitars for many classical and country musicians and was considered to be among the world’s top makers of custom guitars. This six course (6x1) guitar has a top of Spanish pine, back and sides of Spanish cypress, and a maple neck. The guitar’s edge and soundhole is inlaid with abalone and ebony. Country musician, Chet Atkins previously owned and played this guitar and owned several Haile guitars throughout his career.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Atkins, Chet
maker
Haile, Hascal B.
date made
1972
Credit Line
Gift of Hascal Haile
Measurements
overall: 41 in x 14 5/8 in x 4 1/4 in; 104.14 cm x 37.1475 cm x 10.795 cm
Object Name
guitar
See more items in
Cultural and Community Life: Musical Instruments
Music & Musical Instruments
ID Number
1980.0681.01
accession number
1980.0681
catalog number
1980.0681.01
place made
United States: Kentucky, Tompkinsville

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