The Guitar Peter Yarrow Used On Their First Tour — Still On Display In A New York Museum

April 1, 2025

In the heart of New York City, nestled among the towering skyscrapers and bustling crowds, stands a small but special museum dedicated to the magic of music. Inside, visitors can find an array of instruments, but one guitar, in particular, holds a story that resonates deep within the hearts of those who pass by it. This is the guitar that Peter Yarrow used on his very first tour with the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary. Though it may seem like just a wooden instrument, it carries the weight of dreams, passion, and the power of song.

Picture Peter, a young man in his twenties, stepping onto a stage for the first time with his friends, Paul Stookey and Mary Travers. The year was 1961, and the air was electric with anticipation. They were about to perform at the famous Bitter End club in Greenwich Village. With this guitar slung over his shoulder, Peter felt a blend of excitement and nervousness. He knew that music had the power to touch lives, to bridge gaps between people, and that night, they would share their voices with the world for the first time.

As the audience settled in, Peter took a deep breath and strummed the first chord. The sweet, warm sound of the guitar filled the room, and soon, it was as if time stood still. With each note, they sang about love, hope, and social justice, themes that would define their music and connect them with fans all over the country. The guitar wasn’t just an instrument; it was a companion that carried their messages, becoming a part of history as they sparked a movement with their songs. As their performance ended, the crowd erupted into applause, and in that moment, Peter realized that music was not just what he did, it was who he was.

Years passed, and Peter, along with Paul and Mary, became icons in the music world. They wrote songs that changed lives and inspired a generation, becoming voices for peace during turbulent times. Their music echoed in protests and gatherings across the nation, reminding everyone that they could dream of a better world. The guitar Peter used on that first tour witnessed it all, from the early struggles of finding their voice to the highs of performing for thousands of eager fans. It was a reminder that passion, when met with purpose, could create ripples of change.

Now, as visitors gaze at the guitar in the museum, they don’t just see wood and strings. They see the embodiment of resilience and dedication. It tells a story of young artists daring to dream in a world that often seemed dark and uncertain. Peter Yarrow’s journey from a nervous performer to a beloved legend serves as an inspiration to anyone with a dream, proving that with hard work and a little courage, anything is possible. The guitar stands as a testament to the power of music, reminding us all that our voices can unite us and our stories can inspire generations to come.

As you walk away from the display, you can almost hear the echoes of their songs lingering in the air, a gentle reminder that music can heal, uplift, and transform lives. Peter Yarrow’s guitar is not just a relic of the past, but a beacon of hope for the future, encouraging every dreamer to pick up their own instrument, whatever that may be, and share their story with the world.