We had the chance to tour the Gibson Guitar Factory in Memphis, TN before we headed into Arkansas. I found it very interesting even though I know absolutely nothing about guitars or most of the terms that go along with them. But we still enjoyed seeing behind the scenes of how world-class guitars are made.


Welcome to Gibson Pure.


Safety First!


Setting the frame.


Ready for the next step.


Strung up.


This one needs the base.


Waiting patiently to be checked...again.


The final touches before painting.


That Gibson gloss.


Sanding to give it a smooth finish. They will repaint it if it loses luster.


Some finished. Some not.


This guy has the best job ever! He gets to test the guitars before the are tagged and sent out.


Liz-I know someday one of these guitars will have your name on it.


Interesting Fact: If at any time the Luthiers find any imperfections, even the smallest mark in the finish, on the guitar they will place it on a separate rack. When that rack is full they all have a smashing ceremony which is very sad but they can only have Grade A guitars out there.



After our exciting tour of the factory we headed over to Charles Vego's Rendezvous to test their world famous ribs. You may remember the restaurant from a little movie called The Firm. These ribs did not disappoint and were better without the sauce than with. So of course we ate them the way they were intended to be; bare with just the flavor of dry rub. Yum!



With a quick stop to see the Mighty Mississippi we were on our way to Arkansas. Home of the one and only BILL CLINTON!
Emily