The Tricentennial Organ

On February 12, 2023, Christ Church celebrated the 290th anniversary of its founding, a milestone few institutions in the United States can claim. As we approach our tricentennial celebration, we are called to do our part to strengthen this community and set it on a path to success for all who come after us.

Our current generation, rooted in the faithful work of those who have gone before us, is being called to sow the seeds for future generations.

The current pipe organ in the gallery of Christ Church is nearing the end of its 52-year lifespan. Weather ingress and deferred maintenance have taken their toll, leaving some ranks riddled with broken pipes and dead notes.

In January of 2024, The Christ Church Vestry approved signing a contract with esteemed organ building firm Harrison & Harrison for the complete renovation of the organ. The new instrument will keep the historic wooden organ case intact and preserve a small number of pedal pipes. Harrison & Harrison’s new design represents a fresh tonal start for the organ, focusing much more on a broad range of warm, colorful fundamental stops. The organ, rebuilt to the highest mechanical and musical standards, will be the heart of the musical life of the church, strengthen our connection to our Episcopal tradition, and be a landmark for arts and cultural events in the heart of downtown Savannah.

Harrison & Harrison

Established in 1861, Harrison & Harrison enjoys a long tradition of excellence in organ building. The firm has been based out of the city of Durham in the United Kingdom since 1872. Notable organs built by Harrison & Harrison include those at Westminster Abbey and King’s College Chapel in Cambridge. The company prides itself on its “meticulous standards of design and construction.”

MEET THE CHRIST CHURCH ORGAN COMMITTEE

BY THE NUMBERS

3 manuals

39 ranks

42 stops

2,340 pipes

Fundraising goal: $3 million

Funds pledged to date: $1.85 million

CORNERSTONE DONORS

Many thanks to all those who have already made a pledge to this campaign.

J. S. Bach Circle | $200k+

Victor Andrews

Jerry & Margaret Miller

Widor Circle | $100k-$199k

Litch Carpenter & Wash Dender

Alice & Steve Edwards

Cathy & Jay Howington

Leslie Littlejohn

Paul Reddick

Jim & Erin Waterman

Byrd Circle | $50k-$99k

Stephanie & Jim Lindley

Rosemary Mackey

In memory of Irwin Krakoff

Tallis Circle | $25k-$49k

Richard A. Beattie

Mills & Marianne Fleming

Mimi S. Jones

Mary E. Raines

Todd Smelser & James Gerhart

Sara & Peter Woodfield

The Summerville Foundation

Vaughan Williams Circle | $10k-$24k

Rebecca Cheatham

Meredith & Reed Dulany

In memory of Susan Strobhar Dulany

Stephen & Claire Rilee

David & Claudia Seyle

The Brown Foundation