I was introduced to the Theatre Organ at Radio City Music Hall back in 1956. Until that time I had no interest in the organ. I came home and got permission to practice on the tracker action pipe organ at my church. Needless to say this just wasn't the same but that did not detour me. I started collecting articles regarding the theatre organ and in 1962 I purchased a Wurlitzer Spinet. This satisfied me for a while. Then a member of our church choir new I was looking for a theatre pipe organ for my home and put me in touch with her nephew who had one he wanted to sell. It was Wurlitzer Opus 1297 originally installed in St Patrick's Cathedral in Belfountain, Ohio.
It was a 2/7 Special (Tuba, Tibia, Salicional and Celest, Dulciana, Diapason & Flute with Chrysoglott and Chimes. When I bought it, it had a xylophone added. I have added the Glock., Toy Counter, Percussion and Piano. Also when I got the organ someone had replaced the Dulciana with a Vox.
It now has a 3 manual console and I am preparing to add 5 more ranks to it. I haven't done anything to the combination action. I don't know if I want to restore the pneumatics or go with syndines. The back rail is already syndines. The console is a make over from a panel to a French style console.
If anyone is in the area and would like to hear or play it feel free to contact me.
Gary Davies
Sugarcreek, OH
Email Gary