The Organ of First Methodist Church

The original pipe organ of First United Methodist Church was built by the Wicks Organ
Company (Highland, Illinois) in 1953. Minor additions and changes were made in the
1970’s.  After a professional evaluation of the instrument was made in January 1991,
recommendations were made concerning the then-deteriorating instrument. It would not be
until 1998 that an Organ Renewal Committee would be established to study the possible
courses of action to update and repair the organ, and make a recommendation to the
church.  

Under the leadership of Chairman Pat Pattillo, the Committee reviewed and studied all
possible avenues, both pipe and electronic organ solutions.  Mr. Lee Lalance of St.
Petersburg, Florida was secured as organ consultant.  Senior Minister Dr. Donald W.
Jones raised funds, the result being over 300 generous friends pledging support to the
project, in addition to non-pledged gifts.  Under the guidance of Senior Minister Rev.
William Owens, it was determined that the Chancel area would be remodeled to
accommodate the new console, and also allow for more flexible programming with the use
of a movable choir loft and modular components.  The organ was dedicated in concert 25
March 2001.  Additional tonal and aesthetic work was completed on the instrument in
2006 by the Wicks Organ Company.

Wicks Organ Company, opus 3437
Four manuals, 94 ranks