A common topic here on MMD is the ability to share knowledge within
the community of mechanical music aficionados.  Technical information,
history, and restoration techniques are often shared.  Occasionally
a fine instrument comes out of "hiding" and we collectively rejoice
knowing that soon it will sing again.

Recently, an Aeolian Organ was declared as excess baggage in
a mansion restoration.  Those involved thought someone would want the
organ.  Unfortunately, their effort to rescue the organ went in the
wrong direction.  No one responded constructively.  Finally, someone
on the Organ Historical Society list mentioned it, and then another
list member contacted me.  That was on July 28.

Today, after frantically trying to save this instrument, I was
informed that it already had gone to the dump.  The console was saved
as an "oddity" for the local historical society, but the rest is toast.

The organ in question was Opus 1520.  It was last upgraded by Aeolian
in 1930, and I am told it was still operational when it was ripped out.
It was not a magnificent instrument, but medium sized which made it
"a match" to many collectors.

I write this post to let everyone know that I actively try to save
Aeolian Organs.  I encourage collectors who are interested in the
Aeolian Organ to pursue those interests.  I maintain several web
sites dealing with my own Aeolian Organ in hopes that it will generate
interest, and perhaps even help in preserving other Aeolian Organs.

Sometimes the MMD and my own efforts are not enough.  I have a friend
waiting to get an Aeolian organ.  He wants one, he can afford it, and
now he is disappointed.  Me, too.

Please, if you know of an available Aeolian organ, contact me.

Bob Taylor
http://web.me.com/bobtaylor5/aeolian/Welcome.html