Here we have something truly special: a 1950 Martin D-28, previously owned by the one and only Norman Blake. Based on information gathered from those close to Norman, we believe this instrument was the guitar used on his first album, Back Home in Sulphur Springs. It is also believed to be featured on the album cover. The guitar made an appearance on The Johnny Cash Show and was used by Norman on John Hartford’s groundbreaking album Aereo-Plain.
In addition to these staggering accolades, this guitar was once owned by Roland White while he was performing with Bill Monroe and the Bluegrass Boys. There isn’t a much higher level of notoriety that an instrument in the realm of Bluegrass can attain.
Featuring Brazilian rosewood for the back and sides, Sitka Spruce on the top, and even a rattlesnake rattle inside, this guitar—manufactured 74 years ago at the time of publication—has all the right mojo and lineage. This is a special instrument that was present for many formative moments in acoustic music history. This is the first time this guitar has been offered to the publish since 1985.
Other keywords/misspellings: Luthier, lutherie, oldtime, grass, trad, vintage, dread,114076
Where to begin? This guitar has such a rich history, filled with stories that have shaped its legacy. It's truly something special—an instrument that has witnessed so much change over the years, yet remains timeless. Being around this guitar is a unique experience, and the chance to add it to any collection is a rare opportunity. This isn’t just an instrument; it’s a piece of history. 
I'm humbled by the weight of history contained in this otherwise feather-light D-28. The very guitar owned and played by one of the all-time greats? It's incredible. Battle scars from the road, the inimitable feel of a neck that's been handled for thousands of hours, the top similarly weathered but holding firm. Playing this guitar is like meeting one of your childhood heroes. It's unreal, and hard to fathom. But it feels so good to have this guitar in my hands, even if only for a minute. | Scale Length | 25.4 in |
|---|---|
| Nut Width | 1.781 in |
| String Spacing | 2.125 in |
| Woods | Spruce - Sitka, Rosewood - Brazilian |
Here we have something truly special: a 1950 Martin D-28, previously owned by the one and only Norman Blake. Based on information gathered from those close to Norman, we believe this instrument was the guitar used on his first album, Back Home in Sulphur Springs
Where to begin. This guitar has such a rich history, filled with stories that have shaped its legacy
I'm humbled by the weight of history contained in this otherwise feather-light D-28. The very guitar owned and played by one of the all-time greats 