Martin Model 5-18 Formerly Owned by Bonnie Guitar

This is an acoustic guitar created by C. F. Martin  & Company, model 5-18. The Martin 5-18 was one of the smallest made by Martin, the body being just 16” long. It was usually advertised as a “junior” or three-quarter size guitar. First appearing in the Martin catalog in 1898, the guitar was designed as a “terz” guitar, a style that originated in Germany. Terz guitars are intended to be tuned to a minor third, or three frets higher than standard. This style of guitar was popular in Europe in the 19th century, especially in duets that called for one standard guitar and one terz. Despite being smaller, these guitars are just as loud as standard guitars. 

Seattle native Bonnie Guitar (1923 – 2019) owned this 1950 Martin 5-18. A singer, songwriter, producer, session instrumentalist, and record label executive, she released many crossover hits, starting with “Dark Moon” in 1957, that climbed both the Country and Pop charts. As the co-owner of Dolton Records, she helped launch major Northwest groups such as The Fleetwoods and The Ventures. Through the mid-1960s, Guitar’s career in front of the mic soared, while she was equally successful as the Artist & Repertoire head for RCA and ABC-Paramount's country divisions. 

Bonnie Guitar was married for 11 years to Paul Tutmarc, another Seattle musical icon. A musician, teacher, and inventor, Tutmarc created an early line of electric guitars as well as the very first electric bass guitar. See 1995.108.2 for the Audiovox Model 736 Electric Bass Guitar.