American Folk Cigar Box Guitar Legacy In The Revival
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Did you know that cigar box guitars, once seen as simple makeshift instruments, helped shape the American folk revival? These DIY guitars, often made from repurposed materials, became a symbol of ingenuity and self-expression for musicians during a pivotal era. In this article, we’ll explore how these humble instruments rose to prominence, their deep connection to American folk music, and why they’re still relevant today. Whether you’re a musician, history buff, or just curious about this musical phenomenon, there’s plenty to uncover!
The Origins of Cigar Box Guitars in American Folk Music
The history of cigar box guitars stretches back to the mid-19th century when economic hardships forced many people to get creative with their musical pursuits. Instead of purchasing expensive instruments, resourceful individuals repurposed cigar boxes, broomsticks, and other materials to craft their own guitars. These homemade instruments were especially popular during the Great Depression when folk musicians sought affordable ways to keep their music alive.
Folk music has always been about storytelling, community, and improvisation, which is why the DIY nature of cigar box guitars fit so well into the genre. In a way, these instruments symbolized the resilience of American folk culture — a culture rooted in simplicity and self-reliance. While we often think of folk music in terms of its famous songs and artists, the instruments used to create that music tell an equally important story. Early folk musicians, many of whom couldn’t afford traditional guitars, turned to cigar box guitars to express their creativity.
Cigar Box Guitars and Their Role in the American Folk Revival
The American folk revival of the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1950s and 60s, brought new life to traditional forms of music, and cigar box guitars played a unique role in this movement. During the revival, musicians were searching for sounds that felt raw, authentic, and connected to the roots of American music. Cigar box guitars, with their rustic appearance and unpolished sound, became a favorite among grassroots musicians who sought to capture the essence of working-class life.
This era saw a resurgence of protest songs and folk tunes that voiced social and political unrest. The cigar box guitar, with its humble beginnings, became a fitting instrument for these messages. It was common to see cigar box guitars featured in folk songs that spoke about the struggles of the everyday American, whether they were laborers, farmers, or activists.
Many folk musicians of the time embraced handmade instruments as a form of rebellion against the commercialization of music. The imperfections of a cigar box guitar—its uneven strings, unpredictable tuning—became part of the charm. It was music in its purest, most unfiltered form, which resonated deeply with the ethos of the folk revival.
Crafting a Cigar Box Guitar: An American Folk Tradition Lives On
One of the most remarkable aspects of the cigar box guitar is that it’s a true DIY instrument. The tradition of crafting these guitars has been passed down through generations, with each builder putting their own unique spin on the design. In the early days, cigar box guitars were often made with whatever materials were available—an old cigar box, a piece of wood for the neck, maybe even wire for the strings. Today, while you can still find cigar box guitars made from scrap materials, some builders use more sophisticated techniques and materials to create a polished product.
The process of building a cigar box guitar is an extension of the folk tradition itself, where music is deeply personal and tied to the maker’s hands. Many modern folk musicians build their own instruments, embracing the craftsmanship that goes into each step of the process. Even though we now have access to factory-made instruments, there’s something magical about making your own guitar and playing music on it.
If you’re interested in making your own cigar box guitar, you’ll find that the materials are easy to source, and the steps are relatively simple. You’ll need a cigar box (or a similar wooden box), a wooden stick for the neck, some guitar strings, and a few basic tools. There are countless tutorials online to guide you through the process, and the end result is a truly unique instrument that embodies the spirit of American folk music.
Famous Musicians Who Brought Cigar Box Guitars to the Folk Scene
Several famous musicians helped bring cigar box guitars into the spotlight during the American folk revival. Artists like Lightnin’ Hopkins and Big Bill Broonzy, who were more closely associated with the blues, also played an integral role in shaping the sound of folk music. These musicians often used cigar box guitars to create a raw, soulful sound that became synonymous with folk traditions.
Even in the contemporary music scene, artists like Seasick Steve have continued to champion the use of cigar box guitars. Steve, in particular, has been instrumental in keeping the cigar box guitar tradition alive, often performing with homemade instruments in front of massive audiences. His success proves that this humble instrument has transcended its origins and found a place in the modern music world.
In fact, the legacy of cigar box guitars can still be heard in many folk and blues performances today. Whether it’s on stage at a festival or in an intimate acoustic setting, these instruments continue to inspire musicians to create authentic, heartfelt music.
Why Cigar Box Guitars Are Still Relevant in Folk Music
In recent years, there’s been a resurgence of interest in cigar box guitars, especially within folk and roots music communities. Musicians are drawn to the instrument not only for its history but for the unique sound it produces. Unlike a standard guitar, the cigar box guitar has a gritty, unpolished tone that lends itself perfectly to folk and blues. It’s an instrument that invites experimentation and improvisation, much like folk music itself.
What makes cigar box guitars particularly relevant today is the DIY ethos that surrounds them. In an age where mass-produced instruments dominate the market, many musicians are looking for ways to create something personal and one-of-a-kind. Building and playing a cigar box guitar allows them to reconnect with the roots of American folk music, where the focus was more on the music itself than on the instrument’s brand or price tag.
Cigar box guitars have even found their way into modern festivals, workshops, and gatherings where musicians come together to celebrate handmade instruments. These events are a testament to the ongoing relevance of cigar box guitars in folk culture, proving that the spirit of ingenuity and creativity that defined the folk revival is still very much alive today.
Conclusion
Cigar box guitars, once a symbol of resourcefulness and creativity, have cemented their place in American folk history. From their humble beginnings to their critical role in the folk revival, these instruments continue to inspire musicians to this day. If you’re interested in crafting your own, or simply want to appreciate their legacy, the rich history of the cigar box guitar in American folk is something every music lover should explore. Ready to give it a try? You might just uncover a whole new way to enjoy music!
