Burlington, VT

First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington

This historic church entrusted the search for a new organ to the capable guidance of Dr. Charles Callahan, who subsequently selected R.A. Colby to design and construct this exceptional instrument.

The organ’s origins date to 1863, when it was built and installed by the Johnson Organ Company. In 1954, the Austin Organ Company replaced the action and expanded the instrument tonally while preserving the original Johnson organ as its foundation.

Under Dr. Callahan’s direction, the organ underwent a further transformation in 2006, receiving a completely new action system, building structure, casework, and significant tonal expansion. Complementary digital voices were carefully integrated to enhance the instrument’s tonal resources and versatility. The historic Johnson and Austin pipework was meticulously revoiced through a collaborative effort between Dr. Callahan and the craftsmen of R.A. Colby.

Today, this distinguished instrument continues to serve both the congregation and the greater Burlington community, carrying forward a rich musical heritage that spans more than 160 years and traces its roots to the Civil War era.