Old 36 Guitar Works

Unioncaster – Heritage Collection

The Unioncaster — custom built for players at every level, from seasoned professionals to serious amateurs. Its deep navy body reflects the uniforms worn by Union soldiers, while the chrome hardware represents the discipline, polish, and organization of the army that fought to preserve the United States. The 33‑star pickguard honors the flag that flew when the first shots were fired at Fort Sumter.

Heritage & Inspiration

The Unioncaster was built to honor the men who answered the call to preserve the United States in its darkest hour. In 1861, under the 33-star flag — the same banner that flew over Fort Sumter when the first shots were fired — they marched to defend the idea of a single, united nation. Many were farmers, tradesmen, and craftsmen who left behind their homes to fight for the Union and the principles it represented.

The 33-star flag pickguard captures that moment in history — a symbol of a country still whole, still believing it could endure. Its weathered finish reflects the passage of time, the cost of conflict, and the enduring strength of the Republic.

From Division to Unity

When the war ended, the same men who fought under different flags came together again as Americans. The Unioncaster carries that spirit of reconciliation — not triumph, but reunion. It stands as a tribute to the courage, discipline, and humanity of those who fought to hold the nation together, and to the peace that followed.

This guitar doesn’t glorify war; it honors the people who bore its weight and helped rebuild what was broken.

A Guitar With a Voice and a Legacy

The Unioncaster is more than an instrument. It’s a story in sound and steel — a piece of playable history.

A handcrafted memorial
A professional‑grade guitar built to be played, displayed, and remembered
Built with precision and pride
Rooted in history
Made to be heard

Created by luthier Jay McMullan of Old 36 Guitar Works, the Unioncaster represents the Northern chapter of the Old 36 Heritage Line — a reflection of refinement, craftsmanship, and the enduring American spirit.

Each Unioncaster guitar has this image laser engraved into a chrome neck plate.

Crafted With Purpose

The pickguard for the Unioncaster isa custom designed, UV printed, work of art only available on this Old 36 guitar. It represents the United States flag, it's thirteen alternated red and white stripes and 33 stars representing the all of the states in the Union at that time.

The Unioncaster begins with a solid mahogany body, chosen for its sustain, warmth, and depth — a tonewood that mirrors the strength and steadiness of the Union soldier. A shoulder relief is carved into the body to save your arm when you're playing those long gigs or just sitting on the couch playing your favorite songs. The body is finished in a high-gloss Federal Blue, echoing the uniforms of the Northern regiments. A custom 33-star flag pickguard completes the design, grounding the instrument in its historical narrative.

Fitted with Bootstrap Palo Duro pickups, the Unioncaster delivers a refined, balanced tone — disciplined, articulate, and confident. It’s the sound of a nation finding its voice again.

The guitar has intonation adjustments available on the bridge for getting perfect intonation at the twelth fret. All chrome hardware plus locking tuners round out this exquisite musical instrument.

Your custom‑built Unioncaster, handcrafted to order, is available for $1,799.99 USD.