"Hank Williams used this 1944 Martin D-28 guitar to create his unsurpassed legacy as a country singer and songwriter. Among the instruments he owned, this is regarded as his finest. The scratches on its top reflect the wear and tear of countless personal appearances made by the charismatic Williams, everywhere from nightclubs and outdoor concerts to national television. After Williams' tragic death at age 29 on New YearÑ?s Eve, 1952, the guitar passed into the possession of the family. It was handed down to Hank Williams, Jr., who kept alive the family tradition by using it occasionally in performance. Hank, Jr. preserved the guitar for the most part as his father had left it, with its original herringbone edge trim, ebony fretboard with slotted diamond inlays, and wartime-style tuners with plastic, white oval buttons. "
Gallery: Guitars of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum
Can''t make it to Nashville? We bring some of country''s classic instruments to you.
By Chris KiesOct 29, 2009
Chris Kies
Chris Kies has degrees in Journalism and History from the University of Iowa and has been with PG dating back to his days as an intern in 2007. He's now the multimedia manager maintaining the website and social media accounts, coordinating Rig Rundown shoots (also hosting and/or filming them) and occasionally writing an artist feature. Other than that, he enjoys non-guitar-related hobbies.