Jimi Hendrix’s Thornward Parlor Acoustic Guitar

All that is known about this Thornward parlor guitar is that it is currently owned by Hard Rock Cafe International and is displayed at their restaurant in Amsterdam, Netherlands. According to the Hard Rock Cafe’s information, the guitar was donated by Mitch Mitchell and was allegedly used during the recording of All Along the Watchtower in 1968. However, since Jimi was never photographed during those sessions, there’s no way to confirm this claim.

In terms of identifying the guitar, the paper label inside suggests it is likely a Washburn model made by Lyon & Healy in Chicago around the turn of the 20th century. Interestingly, the headstock label reads “Thornward,” which could indicate a different branding. (Thanks to Stephen from Vintage Parlor Guitars for this insight.)