Update on Katsbaan's Historic Pipe Organ
July, 2008
We were thrilled to have Richard Hamar return to Katsbaan once in April & twice in May. He has made tremendous progress with "Goliath".
Documentation has shown that Strong's organ came with a cremona (a unique set of pipes designed to create a sound similar to a clarinet). At some point after the organ left New York City, the cremona was removed and never replaced. Richard had a set (circa 1849) that was taken to A. David Moore in Vermont. Mr. Moore did extensive work to restore these pipes, including having to create his own castings, and Richard created a rack board to replace the one that was missing.
These photos tell the story of the progress that has been made:
Richard Hamar
Cremona Rack Board Created by Richard
Before (above-2007) and after (below) Richard's recent visits.
The changes seem subtle, but they're very significant.
3 views of the work that has been done
on and around the manuals (keyboards):
We look forward to Richard's return during the summer to continue the task of re-assembling as well as proceeding with work on the exterior (cabinetwork). We're also looking forward to the rest of the team (Dana Hull & Barbara Owen) coming to Katsbaan sometime in August.
We again applaud their efforts on behalf of our historic pipe organ. It's wonderful to know that we're slowly but surely getting closer to completing this restoration.
If you are able to send a donation, checks made payable to "Katsbaan Reformed Church Organ Fund" may be sent to: Katsbaan Organ Restoration Project, c/o Janice M. Trevail, 1866 High Falls Road, Catskill, NY 12414-5411.
Once the restoration process has been completed, everyone will receive an invitation to the recital that will be held to honor this very special instrument.
Please take a moment to pray for the success of this project.
Thank You and God Bless You!
which includes the history of the organ.
