The organ is now completely dismantled and some initial repairs have begun. Mainly a gluing and clamping exercise.

You’ll never guess what I found in the bellows when I dismantled it. Pictures below.

There is plenty of evidence of wood worm throughout but it was well treated by the previous owner. None the less I have treated it again just to be sure.

The case top (part with mirror) is in good condition bar a couple of spots but the finish on the main case is in terrible condition. I now face the task of trying to match the new finish on the case with the old finish on the case top. Worst case scenario? If nothing matches I strip the whole lot and start from scratch. We will see.

On a different note, the RF Steven’s organ which I was working on last is almost now completely finished. I will fill you in with pictures of the final product in the next while. Work so far in documented on its page on the main site. Here is the link: http://www.reedorgansireland.com/stevenfoldingorgan/

Click on each photo below for full size and move your pointer over the picture for the caption.

Subscribe to Restoration Blog - Reed Organs Ireland by Email

More pictures and info soon…

The restoration has begun! This is a nice Estey parlor organ made in 1898. It is going to need a new bellows and bellows platform since the original ones are riddled with woodworm. The case will need to be refinished completely.

I have treated it for woodworm although it was treated before. You can’t be too careful.

I will keep posting pictures and let you know how it is going. Sign up if you would like to receive email notification of new blog entries. Lots of photos below.