Women's History Month update on rebirth of original Gibson factory, recognition of "Kalamazoo Gals"

Following up from my Women's History Month articles "The Hidden History of Laura the Luthier" and "'Kalamazoo Gal' Irene visits original Gibson factory, a silent monument to WWII women luthiers" in 2019, I wanted to share an update on the recent news of the factory's revitalization and plans to recognize the "Kalamazoo Gals."

The "Kalamazoo Gals" pose for a staff photo in front of the original Gibson factory in 1944. Courtesy John Thomas.

The Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Manufacturing Company building in 1941. Courtesy Kalamazoo Public Library.

On March 1st, Hard Rock Hotels unveiled plans to renovate the original Gibson guitar factory as a hotel, REVERB by Hard Rock Kalamazoo, with “a keen eye on maintaining the historic parts of the property“ and "an anticipated completion date of Fall 2023." John Thomas, author of "Kalamazoo Gals: A Story of Extraordinary Women & Gibson's 'Banner' Guitars of WWII," is hopeful that the Gals will be recognized with an historical marker as talks progress with the developer.

A concept rendering for REVERB by Hard Rock Kalamazoo includes the original Gibson factory and smokestack.

The Hidden History of Laura the Luthier (March 1, 2019)

"Kalamazoo Gal" Irene visits original Gibson factory, a silent monument to WWII women luthiers (March 4, 2019)