On Sunday, June 8th a generous crowd turned out to hear the magnificent sound of the Hinners Pipe Organ and learn about its origins.
Rev. Randy Burwell welcomed the attendees and opened the festivities with a prayer before Linda Webb performed her first piece, Majesty. The bold tone of the pipe organ filled the sanctuary as the song played on. The use of the chimes was present in the next selection, Love Divine, All Loves Excelling, a song written by Charles Wesley, Founder of Methodism.
Don Achelpohl then shared a history of the Hinners organ going back to its founder, John L. Hinners. The Hinners Organ Company was located in Pekin, Illinois in 1879.
He also explained the many ranks of the organ, 23 to be exact, one of the largest of its kind at that time. The Hinners pipe organ was created to sound like a full orchestra.
German influence can be noted in the intricate wood carvings at the massive base of the pipes depicting oak leaves and vines. The pipe organ most likely shipped by train in pieces from Pekin with only instructions and perhaps two men sent along to put it all together, to fit exactly into the space. Although there is no record of how the organ was delivered. Bushnell's train system, especially at that time, would seem to be the most likely.
Achelpohl displayed pictures of the metal and wooden pipes behind the scenes. He also pointed out how different tones were sometimes made by pieces of metal cut out and then scrolled down to the exact position to make a specific note or tone on the pipes.
A picture of the bricks piled on the bellows was shown, the bricks were placed to increase pressure to get a more magnificent tone. The Bricks, curiously enough, were labeled Burlington Brick, which were made in East Galesburg, the largest manufacturer of paver bricks in the world. The brick company made 150,000 premium quality bricks per day and employed 800 people.
An invitation to look behind the gigantic pipes was extended but only from afar, as only small narrow planks are available to walk on, these used by those who have worked on the organ throughout its 100 years. One last song was played, Praise to the Lord, The Almighty, before refreshments were served as conversations and memories were shared.
