History in the making
EST. 1946
Fullerton, CA
The Stratocaster is born
Leo Fender introduces the Stratocaster, with its contoured body, three pickups and tremolo bridge, a design that would shape the sound of popular music for decades.
Buddy Holly on national TV
Buddy Holly plays his Stratocaster on The Ed Sullivan Show, putting the guitar in front of millions of viewers across America.
Enter the Jazz Bass
Fender launches the Jazz Bass, with a slimmer neck and offset body, offering bass players a brighter, more articulate voice.
Bob Dylan “Goes electric”
Bob Dylan makes a major statement at the Newport Folk Festival, as the typically acoustic troubadour brought out a Stratocaster and an all-electric band, shocking the audience.
Hendrix closes Woodstock
Jimi Hendrix delivers his searing take on The Star-Spangled Banner on a white Stratocaster, one of the defining moments of the festival.