Step into a unique musical haven at The Cigar Box Guitar Store, the only brick-and-mortar establishment globally dedicated to cigar box guitars and instruments. Located in the vibrant Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment in Huntsville, Alabama, this store offers an unparalleled experience for musicians, art enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike. With a curated selection of around 40 handcrafted cigar box guitars and related instruments, it’s a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
What exactly is a cigar box guitar? These fascinating instruments are more than just novelties; they are a testament to ingenuity and musical history. Rooted in necessity and creativity, cigar box guitars emerged from impoverished communities, particularly in the American South, dating back to the late 19th century. Using readily available materials like cigar boxes, broom handles, and wire, resourceful musicians crafted playable instruments, giving rise to a distinctive sound and tradition. This legacy is alive and thriving at The Cigar Box Guitar Store.
At the heart of the store’s offerings are the handcrafted three and four-string cigar box guitars, alongside cigar box bass guitars, amplifiers, and tambourines. Starting at $175, these instruments are designed to be accessible to beginners while offering seasoned guitarists a unique sonic palette. Tuned to Open G, they are beginner-friendly, yet versatile enough for complex musical explorations. Whether played acoustically or plugged in, each guitar is a unique piece of playable art, showcasing individual designs and character. Notably, iconic musicians like Bo Diddley, Jimi Hendrix, Paul McCartney, Keith Richards, Ed King, and Billy Gibbons have all embraced the distinctive charm of cigar box guitars, further cementing their place in music history. Huntsville’s own music scene also boasts cigar box guitar enthusiasts such as John Nickel, John Savage, and Microwave Dave.
Beyond purchasing these unique instruments, The Cigar Box Guitar Store fosters a welcoming community through its free Saturday cigar box guitar lessons. From noon to 2:00 pm, anyone can drop in, regardless of experience, and learn the basics. Loaner guitars are always available, and there’s no pressure to make a purchase, making music accessible to everyone.
Adding to its unique appeal, The Cigar Box Guitar Store is the exclusive physical outlet for Mad Sci Innovations, the creative venture of luthier Jeff Mello, who co-owns the store with his wife, Tara. Jeff’s “playable art” extends beyond cigar boxes, incorporating recycled materials like lunchboxes, tins, and even baseball bats into his guitar creations. His innovative spirit also manifests in tambourines, amplifiers, Bluetooth music players, bass guitars, and washboards, all crafted from repurposed materials.
The store’s location within Lowe Mill A&E is significant as it is also the home of the world’s longest-running Cigar Box Guitar Festival. This annual event, held in Huntsville, celebrated its 20th year in 2024, featuring 12 musical acts and raising funds for music education.
For those unable to visit in person, The Cigar Box Guitar Store offers online shopping options, including current inventory browsing and custom guitar design services. Stay connected with The Cigar Box Guitar Store through their monthly newsletter and direct inquiries via their website.
Located in Studio 106 at Lowe Mill A&E (2211 Seminole Dr. SW, Huntsville, AL 35805), the store welcomes visitors Wednesday through Saturday (hours vary, check website for details or call 256-886-8554 for private appointments). First-time visitors to Lowe Mill A&E, a historic textile mill and the largest privately-owned artists’ community in the US, can find directions to the studio using the map provided on their website.
Whether you’re a seasoned musician, an art lover, or simply seeking a unique experience, The Cigar Box Guitar Store in Huntsville, Alabama, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of handcrafted musical instruments and the enduring appeal of the cigar box guitar. Visit them in person or online to discover the magic for yourself.
