Danny Ellison is a retired sheriff from Bakersfield, CA, and like myself, a lover of Mosrite guitars.  Ellison grew up in Bakersfield during the late 1950s when Semie Moseley first set up a small guitar workshop there.  Located just across the street from Ellison's elementary school, Mosrite's workshop was well-frequented by the young Ellison.  After school, Ellison would spend his afternoon watching the guitar maker at work.  The two soon became friends.  In 1965, when Ellison returned from military service, Ellison worked for Semie, learning the craft of painting and finishing guitars.  In 2007, Ellison discovered a 1966 model Mosrite.  The guitar was weathered with age and almost beyond recognition.  Ellison subsequently decided to purchase the relic, and restore it to its original condition.  The following images are the results of what I call "the magic work of Danny Ellison."

Having worked on a few guitar projects before, as well as having firsthand experience in Mosrite workshop, Ellison had become quite handy in the craft of guitar making.  His previous guitar projects included a Fender Jazzmaster and Jazz Bass made from scratch.  Ellison, however, still wished to return to his childhood favorite, the Mosrite.   Subsequently, when he found the vintage Mosrite, Ellison was determined to restore the guitar to its original condition.  Like a detective, the former Bakersfield sheriff began the task of researching the history of the guitar.  Careful study yielded the exact serial number, component parts, and other specifications: the S/N (4129),the dating on the neck and pots, all conformed.  Ellison concluded that the guitar was in fact, the 1966 Mosrite guitar as used by the surf group, the Ventures.

The residue under the neck joint indicated that the original finish was a sunburst color.    The neck, body, and basic construction were in fairly good condition.  The fret work was average.  The turners were all original and in good working condition.

The pickups were also original, and in working condition.  The bridge was functional.  The vibra mute was fine, the tremolo, however, was missing.  Ellison therefore decided to replace the trem arm, creating the arm from scratch.    After testing the pickups, Ellison found that the sound quality was still exceptional.  The final step that remained was the refinishing of the guitar.

Knowing that the guitar was indeed a 1966 Ventures Mosrite guitar, Ellison placed the final touches on the guitar:  a pair of "Mosrite" and "Ventures" decals, confirming the authenticity of his masterpiece.  Even the most experienced collector will have a difficult time discerning the difference.

I discovered the restoration masterpiece, and bought the guitar from Bakersfield, CA.   The image to the left is my new 1966 Mosrite guitar, as restored by Mr. Danny Ellison.

The back of the restored Mosrite.

The original 1966 Mosrite case, also restored. (with replaced handle)

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