Researcher seeks photos and information on organ formerly housed in Columbia church

Recent photo of the organ in its new home

John Robinson of Harrisburg is seeking photos and information about an organ that was once housed at the former First English Lutheran Church at 5th & Chestnut (now the District Administration Center). In particular, he is hoping to find photos of the First English nave, the organ console, and any visible pipes.

According to Robinson, the church's organ did not stay in Columbia after the congregation's building changed hands. In 2005, the instrument was given to Abiding Presence Lutheran Church in San Antonio, Texas. There, it was reconfigured to fit its new home by Parkey Organbuilders of Braselton, Georgia. More than two decades later, the organ is reportedly still in regular use, played each week during services.

Robinson is helping the Organ Historical Society update its national database, which tracks the history and current status of organs across the United States.

Anyone with photographs or memories of the church and its organ is encouraged to reach out to Robinson directly at jkrsmr@comcast.net.