Travis Bean. It's the name of a California motorcycle enthusiast who decided in the early 70's that aluminum would be a step forward in guitar design. He thought that it would be a much more stable material for the necks. Using a neck-through-to-the-bridge design also improved the sound and sustain of the guitars. While Travis played some guitar, he was a drummer and kept a drum kit set up at the factory to back up players when they were there to check out equipment.
The company was founded in 1974 and lasted five years, closing in August of '79. They produced about 3650 guitars and basses which are as viable an instrument today in the '90's as they were when they were built. Initial production began in 1974 and continued until December '77 when the factory was closed for "reorganization". In June '78 it reopened and continued till August '79 when the plug was pulled by the investors that had "reorganized" the company. Sashi Patell, an Indian guy, was the major investor and "drove" the company for the last twelve months. During the first six months of 1978, limited "unofficial" production continued with a partial production crew who often took guitars in lieu of wages. In 1977 the guitars were sold through Rothchild Distribution but that ended with the reorganization.