Mel R. Willetts
1980

Originally Karn-Morris Piano & Organ Co. (1914)

First Baptist Church (1969)

Sanctuary; front

99 Thomas Ave.
Wallaceburg, ON, CA

15 Ranks
Instrument ID: 67708 ● Builder ID: 8344 ● Location ID: 58714
⬆️ These are database IDs that may change. Don't use as academic reference.EXPLORE IMAGESVIEW STOPLIST

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IMAGES

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Originally Written/Published: August 22, 2023. Corrected/Updated by James R. Stettner from console photo

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CONSOLES

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Builder: M. P. Möller
Position: Console in Fixed Position, Left
Design: Traditional With Roll Top
Pedalboard Type: Concave Radiating (Details Unknown)
Features:
2 Manuals (61 Notes)30 Note Pedal3 Divisions15 Stops16 RegistersElectrical Key ActionElectrical Stop Action✓ Crescendo✓ Combination Thumb Piston(s)✓ Sforzando Thumb Piston(s)

Stop Layout: Stop Keys Above Top Manual
Expression Type: Balanced Expression Shoes/Pedals (Details Unknown)
Combination Action: Adjustable Combination Pistons
Control System: Unknown or N/A

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DETAILS

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This instrument is: Not Extant and Not Playable in this location

Ian Mason on August 15th, 2023:

In early 2023, it became apparent that major repairs to the organ were necessary. In August, 2023, the decision was made to remove the entire organ and it was subsequently parted out.


Ian Mason on December 2nd, 2021:

The Karn-Morris organ from the 1903-built church was installed by John Bright of London, Ontario in the Christian Education Hall at the congregation's new site in 1969 (99 Thomas Avenue). The 1903-built church was demolished soon afterwards.
“One of the advantages was that because the console would be closer to the working parts of the organ, the original wiring could be used; thus, saving funds. The organ was installed on the platform of the Christian Education building with two chambers made on either side of the platform to hold the pipes and bellows, etc. Ductwork and wiring were all under the platform.” (Barbara Myers, organist)
The organ was later re-installed in the new church in 1980 by Mel R. Willetts, who was the Moller representative in this area. Many members of First Baptist assisted with the re-installation. Two members who were electricians completed all the wiring. The organ was introduced at the first worship service in the new building on Nov. 16, 1980.
In 2001, Willetts replaced the Karn-Morris console with a used Moller console from a church in Woodstock, Ontario; otherwise, the organ is in original condition.


Ian Mason on December 2nd, 2021:

Only two recordings are known to exist of the Karn-Warren organ of First Baptist Church, Wallaceburg.
In 1972, the Deacons Board asked church member Mr. Harold Frost to make a record of his gospel songs which had been so much appreciated over the years. Mr. Henry Schack, recording engineer of Wonderland Studios, London, Ontario, was engaged to record and produce the record. He brought his recording equipment to the church, and with Mrs. Barbara Myers, church organist as accompanist performing on the Karn-Warren pipe organ, the record Wayfaring Songs was produced. The record launch took place in March, 1973.
Since the production of Mr. Harold Frost's first record had been so successful, he was asked to make another. Once again, the Karn-Warren organ was used to accompany Mr. Frost. This record, entitled With God's Love, was produced in 1976. (A History of First Baptist Church, pgs. 14-16)

  • In 2021, Mrs. Barbara Myers still serves as the congregation's organist.

Related Instrument Entries: Karn-Morris Piano & Organ Co. (1914) , John Bright (1969)

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