1919 Guitars – Townsend I
A stripped-down, high-performance machine for tone purists who crave raw expression.
Crafted with unwavering purpose and refined restraint, the Townsend I from 1919 Guitars stands as a bold statement in minimalist design and sonic precision. Stripped down to the essentials, this single-pickup powerhouse redefines clarity and expression with a choice of either the legendary Seymour Duncan JB or the Pearly Gates humbucker—both delivering rich harmonic content, searing sustain, and tonal depth that cuts through with authority.
Explore dynamic tonal textures with the push/pull coil-split, seamlessly integrated into a single volume control, offering instant access to crisp, articulate single-coil tones or the full-bodied roar of a classic humbucker—all without clutter or compromise.
At its core, the Townsend I features a resonant basswood or Paulownia body, paired with a roasted maple neck and a 21-fret maple or rosewood fingerboard, combining warmth, attack, and effortless playability. Every detail is chosen to serve the player—from the natural responsiveness of the tonewoods to the rock-solid stability of premium hardware.
The body is finished in our signature open-grain satin nitro, an aesthetic and tactile experience that honors tradition while embracing the modern player's need for comfort and resonance. Guyker locking tuners and a Guyker Tremolo bridge provide unmatched tuning stability and sustain, keeping your focus where it belongs—on the music.
With the Townsend I, 1919 Guitars invites you into a new chapter of tone—where less becomes infinitely more, where simplicity reveals depth, and where the bond between instrument and artist is forged in raw honesty and refined craftsmanship.
Welcome to the Townsend I. Your sound, distilled.
Build & Body
Basswood or Paulownia body & Bolt-on Roasted Maple neck – time-tested tonewood combo delivers rich mids, punchy lows, and natural sustain.
21-fret Rosewood fingerboard – fast and smooth, with a lightly rolled edge for ultimate comfort.
Hand-applied finish options – solid colors or grain-revealing nitro for vintage vibe or modern edge.
Electronics & Tone
Bridge Pickup Options:
Seymour Duncan JB – hot-rodded, harmonically rich, perfect for rock and lead work.
Seymour Duncan Pearly Gates – vintage-voiced with sweet highs and a growly midrange bite.
Control Layout:
Single Volume Knob with push/pull coil split – flips from full humbucker muscle to a glassy, articulate single-coil tone.
No tone knob, no fluff—just you and the sound.
Hardware & Performance
Guyker Locking Tuners – sleek and stable for quick string changes and rock-solid tuning.
Guyker S Style Tremolo Bridge – simple, elegant, and sustain-packed.
Tusq nut & satin-finished neck back – frictionless playing, natural resonance.
Tonal Range
| Mode | Sound Profile |
|---|---|
| Humbucker (Down) | Thick, dynamic, saturated. Ideal for overdrive, lead, and chunk. |
| Single-Coil (Up) | Crisp, twangy, and open – perfect for clean tones, funk, or indie grit. |
Whether you're slamming riffs, riding cleans, or somewhere in between, the Townsend I delivers direct, unfiltered tone with a pro-level feel.
Quick Specs
| Component | Detail |
|---|---|
| Body | Basswood or Paulownia |
| Neck | Maple Bolt-on |
| Fingerboard | 21-fret Rosewood |
| Pickup | Seymour Duncan JB or Pearly Gates (Bridge Only) |
| Controls | 1 × Volume (Push/Pull Coil Split) |
| Tuners | Guyker Locking |
| Bridge | Guyker S Style Tremolo or Hardtail |
| Finish | Satin Nitro |
Why the Townsend I?
The Townsend I by 1919 Guitars is more than minimalist—it’s focused. No excess. No distractions. Just master-built quality, legendary tones, and a feel that invites creativity.
Starting at: $1,499
Options Available: Pickup choice, finish type, case.
Want help choosing between the JB and Pearly Gates? Need a custom finish or demo link? We can help you spec it out. Contact Us Here