The story behind this bass and amp.

In the 1950s  Ray Bertsch was a violin player in Allentown PA. He wanted to play in The Walt Groller Orchestra, a local Polka band. Walt told him that he didn’t need a violinist but he could use a bass player. In 1955, Ray walked into an Allentown music store and bought this bass and amp brand new. He played in that band for 44 years, eventually retiring. He passed away in 2011. I bought this amazing pair from his son.

They are completely original. They were never modified because he was in a polka band, not a rock band!

I will not sell them separately as they have been in a committed relationship for almost 70 years.

I am doing local pickup only but I could meet you near Philadelphia or New York.

BTW, on the Bassman, there were 5 caps replaced and the power cord replaced with a three prong. I have the original parts.

Please no ridiculous offers.

I have more pics if you need them.

The readable inscriptions on this bass (pictured) are as follows:

9/2/55 in pickup cavity

9-55 on neck heel

7252 embossed into neck plate

304 515 on pots / Stackpole company manufactured on the 15th week of 1955

Gloria 9-26-55 inside electronics cavity