Historic Organ Restoration Committee Inc.

The Historic Organ Restoration Committee Inc. (HORC) is a nonprofit organization based in New Jersey dedicated to the restoration, preservation, and promotion of two historic pipe organs located in Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City. Established on February 13, 2004, HORC operates under the 501(c)(3) tax exemption status, focusing on cultural heritage and the arts.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of HORC is to restore and maintain the Boardwalk Hall Auditorium Organ, recognized as the world's largest pipe organ, and the Ballroom Organ. These instruments are significant not only for their size and complexity but also as vital components of Atlantic City's cultural and musical heritage. Additionally, HORC aims to foster awareness and educate the public on the historical significance of these organs through concerts, educational programming, and community outreach.

Historical Background

The Boardwalk Hall Auditorium Organ, also known as the Midmer-Losh organ, suffered extensive damage during the 1944 Great Atlantic Hurricane and subsequent periods of neglect. Restoration efforts began in earnest in the late 1990s, spearheaded by the New Jersey Sports and Exposition Authority, which initiated a partial restoration funded by state grants. The ongoing restoration project led by HORC is anticipated to cost approximately $16 million and is fully funded through donations and grants.

As of 2024, notable progress has been made, with 95% of the Ballroom Organ and 67% of the Main Auditorium Organ restored to operational condition, allowing these magnificent instruments to be featured in various concerts and events held at Boardwalk Hall.

Key Programs and Activities

HORC engages in various activities to promote the organs and raise funds for their restoration:

• Concerts and Performances: Regular concerts showcase the organs' capabilities, drawing attention to their historical and cultural significance.

• Educational Tours: The organization conducts guided tours, providing insight into the instruments' history and the ongoing restoration efforts.

• Community Outreach: HORC actively promotes interest in organ music and preservation among local and visiting audiences, described by some as "The Sonic Mount Rushmore."

Governance and Financial Information

HORC's governance is overseen by a board of trustees, including notable members such as Curt Mangel (President), Dennis Cook (Secretary), and Chuck Gibson (Treasurer). The organization relies primarily on contributions, which accounted for 91% of its total revenue in recent fiscal reports. The financial data indicates a total revenue of approximately $548,048, with significant expenditures directed towards staff salaries and restoration activities.

Conclusion

The Historic Organ Restoration Committee Inc. continues to play a pivotal role in the restoration and maintenance of America's historic musical heritage. Through its efforts, HORC not only preserves these iconic instruments but also enriches the cultural landscape of Atlantic City, ensuring that future generations can experience the unique sounds of these monumental organs.

[1] https://www.boardwalkorgans.org/whoweare [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Boardwalk_Hall_Auditorium_Organ [3] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/200777618 [4] https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/historic-organ-restoration-committee,200777618/ [5] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/20-0777618