A Brief History of Our Pipe Organ
In 2001, Reverend Thomas P. Thorne, Pastor from 1999-2018, expressed a desire for a new pipe organ to replace the late nineteenth century Cole and Woodberry which had served the parish for over one hundred years.
Funds were quickly raised through the generosity of Assumption parishioners and a concert given by Jose Feliciano at the Levitt Pavilion. Donor names and memorials are displayed in the church vestibule.
The contract was given to Austin Organs of Hartford, Connecticut and renovations began. Four lancet windows facing Riverside Avenue were sealed off to accommodate the new instrument. New wood floors replaced carpeting and a music library was created in one of the church towers. The Cole and Woodberry organ was dismantled and transported to St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Newcastle, Maine where it was reassembled and restored. Austin Opus 2786 was inaugurated on August 15, Feast of the Assumption in 2004.
We are currently seeking to replace them with new chimes in the near future. If you would like to contribute or memorialize a loved one, please contact the Parish office: (203) 227-5161.
