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I've been away for a while. I've missed you heathens.

I have a story to tell here. Last year I spoke with a friend in southern Illinois about a guitar that he's had forever. It was an old, beat-up Kay acoustic. And when I say old, I mean old. It was a 1937 model. He had often talked about restoring it but, finally came to the conclusion that he would never get it done. He offered to sell it to me. He said he wanted to be sure he got it to someone who would restore it and play it.

I didn't know at the time that it would be the last conversation I ever had with my friend. A couple of weeks after I got this beat-up guitar in my hands I was informed that he had died. So, getting it restored was now not just an honor for me but, an obligation. One that I took seriously. The restoration is now complete and I will try to get a video recorded playing it in the next week or so.

I have attached a "before" and "after" picture. I think she looks rather splendid for 81 years old.

Duke 8 Apr 9
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45 comments

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0

Beautifully done and a lovely tribute.

LB67 Level 7 Mar 20, 2019
1

So sad about your friend. Interesting timing, too! I love it!! Even if it’s sound was less than perfect...when it was held, it would be like a piece of history, that you wish was audible! Enjoy!

2

Good job. The age factor and heartfelt story add character and provenance to the instrument.

2

You are a good friend.

3

You did him proud. That is a nice job of restoration.

3

Looks great. I have never even heard of Kay guitars. Hope you enjoy it!

3

Wonderful way to honor your friendship! Sorry for that loss....

2

The guitar was meant for you. Quite a beautiful instrument - I have one son who is professional muso - has a number of guitars. I've never heard of the Kay brand. Do you have a case for it? old things need extra TLC

Thank you! No case for it. This travelled from Illinois to Colorado in the back seat of a friend's car.i keep this one displayed on it's own stand. I've got 33 others. LOL

@Duke 33! you've got it bad mister. Must be like family for you.

2

Awesome job! Beautiful guitar.

Thanks!

1

Fantastic... I’m a vintage collector and love your story. My friend Bob died last week, I’ll be finishing the song we were working on in his honor with plenty of schtick, because he loved schtick☯️

So sorry about your friend...

1

Christ in a sidecar, that is quite a story. All applauds to you.

2

Well done. She's a beauty!

0

Well done. She's a beauty!

2
4

She's beautiful, Duke. Can't wait to hear you play for us.

3

Sorry for your loss but that's a great job you did on the guitar.

5

I'm sorry you lost your friend. You did a beautiful restoration job. You honored your friend's request, that must feel very satisfying.

Betty Level 8 Apr 10, 2018
4

Wow what a beauty classical peic of history

Rosh Level 7 Apr 10, 2018
5

I admire you! Good person and craftsperson! And sense of humor!

4

That is a beautiful guitar. I'm sure you'll enjoy playing it. can we hear your music, by any chance?

Yup! There is a video posted on my profile page. And, I'm about to post one playing this guitar.

4
4

Looks awesome! Reborn, not restored. =] Nice work!

4

How beautiful.

4

Excellent, Good Tribute.

Coldo Level 8 Apr 10, 2018
4

That guitar is awesome. I love old Kay guitars.

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