History
Since the 1800s, the Gatcomb surname has been synonymous with luthiery. One of the most popular banjo manufacturers of the 19th century was the L.B. Gatcomb Co., founded by Lincoln B. Gatcomb of Hancock, Maine. After moving to Boston, he established himself as an instrument maker and music publisher, and stringed instruments bearing the Gatcomb name were sold between 1875 and 1900. These instruments are prized for their exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail, with pristine examples fetching top dollar with collectors.
115 years later, we are picking up where L.B. Gatcomb left off with affordable hand-built instruments and parts. Currently specializing in bodies for luthiers around the globe, we strive to offer affordable projects for our customers to hone their craft on.
We are a small operation based in Maine. Like everyone, we learn as we go and constantly search for better means to build quality instruments and to serve our customers. Our workforce and shop are small enough that CNC technology isn't even conceivable. Besides, we enjoy doing everything by hand. Though time-consuming, using a series of spokeshaves and rasps to fashion a mandolin neck is far more rewarding to the craftsman than punching in numbers on a computer, and customers tend to agree that hand-crafted instruments possess a character as unique as the player. And there's certainly a sense of satisfaction and achievement as you watch a slab of maple transform into a highly-carved work of art...even if it takes many hours of scraping and finger-planing (and all the accompanying flesh wounds) for the transformation to take place.
115 years later, we are picking up where L.B. Gatcomb left off with affordable hand-built instruments and parts. Currently specializing in bodies for luthiers around the globe, we strive to offer affordable projects for our customers to hone their craft on.
We are a small operation based in Maine. Like everyone, we learn as we go and constantly search for better means to build quality instruments and to serve our customers. Our workforce and shop are small enough that CNC technology isn't even conceivable. Besides, we enjoy doing everything by hand. Though time-consuming, using a series of spokeshaves and rasps to fashion a mandolin neck is far more rewarding to the craftsman than punching in numbers on a computer, and customers tend to agree that hand-crafted instruments possess a character as unique as the player. And there's certainly a sense of satisfaction and achievement as you watch a slab of maple transform into a highly-carved work of art...even if it takes many hours of scraping and finger-planing (and all the accompanying flesh wounds) for the transformation to take place.