The Rich History of Holy Cross Organ

From humble beginnings to a magnificent 44-rank instrument

Organ pipes narthex

Early Beginnings (1884-1915)

The organ at Holy Cross has a rich history spanning over a century. The first instrument mentioned in our original 1884 frame church was most likely of the harmonium/pump organ type. The circa 1910 Estey harmonium found in our chapel today is probably very similar to our first instrument.

In 1915, a new pipe organ was donated by "Miss Beach" and installed in the second (1903) church, which is our present chapel. One pipe rank from this organ—the Swell Quintadena—survives in our present instrument, connecting us to our musical heritage.

Organ keyboards

The Möller Era (1945-1989)

In 1945, the vestry authorized the purchase of a three-manual organ from the M.P. Möller Company of Hagerstown, MD, to replace the 1914 instrument for $5,000. The old organ was sold to St. Philip's Parish in Brevard.

When our present church was built in 1952, the organ and pipes were moved to their current location, with pipes placed behind a screen on the cantoris (liturgical north) side of the chancel. By 1989, the rector advised that the organ was in need of major repairs due to mass deterioration.

Brennan playing organ

The Grand Restoration (1991-1995)

In 1991, a vestry committee decided to rebuild the current organ. In January 1994, work began by John Dower, Co. of Lincolnton, NC (now Lincoln Pipe Organs, Inc). The organ was totally rebuilt and more than doubled in size, featuring:

  • A refurbished four-manual Aeolian-Skinner console
  • New reeds and a Zimbelstern
  • An antiphonal trumpet division
  • A handsome façade of diapason pipes replacing the old screen

The restored, 44-rank organ was dedicated on November 19, 1995, followed by a series of organ recitals featuring organists from throughout the country.

Wooden church organ with colorful stained glass window in background, soft lighting, and dark wooden paneling.

A Concert Destination

The organ and the excellent acoustics of our nave make the church an inviting place for concerts. Musicians enjoy performing at Holy Cross during our Wednesdays at Noon Advent and Lenten Recital Series.

In recent years, we have hosted distinguished artists including organist/composer Robert J. Powell, concert organist Brennan Szafron, internationally renowned organist Paul Jacobs (2015), and celebrated German organist and conductor Thomas Strauss (2016). Under the leadership of Brennan Szafron, Holy Cross continues to host organ concerts by visiting artists.

The organ is still lovingly maintained by Stephen Spake and John Dower at Lincoln Pipe Organs, Inc., ensuring this magnificent instrument continues to inspire worship and music for generations to come.

Curious about the details?

Browse the full specification — divisions, stops, ranks, and pipe counts for our 1994 Dower instrument.

View Specification (PDF)