Pipe Organ Database

Identified through online information from Ronald Crowl. -- Rebuild of existing Kimball organ. The church was remodeled in the split-chancel style in 1949, and the organ was rebuilt by Warren Gratian. A new console from Organ Supply was installed (replete with adjustable combination action and reversibles), and the organ was divided on either side of the choir in the church's "towers" - the Great being put under expression at that time, and a set of Mayland chimes added.

The original tubular-pneumatic action was electrified by the installation of electro-pneumatic primaries. The original Pedal Bourdon of 30 notes was extended to 44; the Swell Harmonic Flute moved to the Great and the original Swell Stopped Flute unified on a new chest. A Voix Celeste was added in the Swell on the original Flute Harmonic chest.

The work was donated by the Oblander family in memory of "Uncle Ed and Aunt Sally" Oblander, who operated a local hardware store for decades.

First Presbyterian was locally famous for its very fine graded choir program, with a senior choir of upwards of 30-plus in most seasons, doing major choral works. The highlight of the musical season at the church was the Christmas Eve Candlelight service, always packed to standing room. Over the decades, this church saw some very finely trained organists and choir directors; Knox College in Galesburg, Illinois - only 30 miles away - having provided fine musicians for the area for over 100 years.