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 the 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 in Durham, 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.”
The Tricentennial Organ
by the Numbers
3 manuals
39 ranks
42 stops
2,340 pipes
Fundraising goal: $3 million
Funds pledged to date: $2.1 million
J. S. Bach Circle | $200k+
Victor Andrews
Jerry & Margaret Miller
Cornerstone Donors
Many thanks to all those who have already pledged to this campaign.
Widor Circle | $100k-$199k
Litch Carpenter & Wash Dender
The Critz Family
Alice & Steve Edwards
Cathy & Jay Howington
Leslie Littlejohn
Paul Reddick
Jim & Erin Waterman
Byrd Circle | $50k-$99k
Stephanie & Jim Lindley
Rosemary Wiggins Mackey
In memory of Irwin H. Krakoff, M.D.
Ann Y. Miller
In memory of William A. Miller, M.D.
Frank and Carol Riddick
In memory of John Mykolyk
Tallis Circle | $25k-$49k
Richard A. Beattie
Mills & Marianne Fleming
Mimi S. Jones
Mary E. Raines
Todd Smelser & James Gerhart
Stephen and Jan Smith
Sara & Peter Woodfield
The Summerville Foundation
Vaughan Williams Circle | $10k-$24k
Priscilla Carrington
In memory of Kenneth W. Carrington, M.D.
Billings and John Cay
Mimi Cay
Rebecca Cheatham
Meredith & Reed Dulany
In memory of Susan Strobhar Dulany
Clare and Wiley Ellis
Jane Espy
Charlie and Joseph Frew-Miller
Christopher Hendricks and Brian Martine
Julia Mikell
In memory of Judge Charles Mikell, Jr.
Stephen & Claire Rilee
David & Claudia Seyle
The Sullivan Family
Helen and Michael White
The Brown Foundation