Brothers Lemuel Gilbert and Timothy Gilbert are two of the most historically important piano makers in American history. Both started building pianos in 1829, but Lemuel Gilbert left the industry for several years while Timothy continued. Lemuel returned to piano building in 1839 when he established his own firm under the name of “Lemuel Gilbert Piano Company”. Lemuel Gilbert built exceptionally well made square grand pianos, marketing them as “Boudoir” pianos. Lemuel Gilbert retired in 1863.  The Lemuel Gilbert Piano Company never built a large volume of instruments, and pianos by Lemuel Gilbert are quite rare today.