Orville H. Gibson (1856-1918): The Architect of American Sound Orville H. Gibson (may 1856 – august 19, 1918) was an american luthier who founded the gibson guitar company in kalamazoo, michigan in 1902, makers of guitars, mandolins and other instruments. His earliest known instrument was a 10-string mandolin-guitar, which bears the date 1894. Gibson's mandolins were 'unlike any previous flatback instrument,' according to music historian paul sparks. His company’s manufacturing standards were very high, and his instruments heavily marketed. He stands as an unparalleled figure in the history…