The Museum celebrates National Electric Guitar Day (November 27) throughout November with a special exhibition featuring the first electric guitar, introduced to the world from Wichita in 1932. The guitar, a 1932 Rickenbacker Electro prototype, was used by Gage Brewer, who brought it directly to Wichita from Los Angeles for its world debut.

The guitar, on loan to the Museum, is featured in numerous books published worldwide and has been exhibited recently at the Musical Instruments Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum.

Its exhibition is in conjunction with Guitar Heroes of Wichita – Electric Guitars From the Museum’s Collection, a special exhibit running November 1 – 16. This exhibit features the electric guitars of notable local musicians that reside in the Museum’s permanent collection. On view are the electric guitars of Bill Goffrier, Berry Harris, Ralph Krenzer, Clif Major, Pat McJimsey, Henry Walker, Marce Reyes, Shark Shelton, Bud Victory, Joe Walsh, Bob Wiley, and Johnny Western.

The scheduling of this special exhibition coincides with the VetsAid Concert at INTRUST Bank Arena, Saturday, November 15th, a concert for our veterans hosted by Joe Walsh, Wichita’s native son and arguably the greatest Guitar Hero. In support of this event, concert ticket holders will receive free admission to the Museum during November.

Wichita’s Guitar Heroes: Electric Guitars from the Museum’s Collection
Runs Nov.1 to Nov. 16
Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum
204 S Main St; Wichita, KS 67203
2nd Floor – West Gallery