The American Organ Archives of the Organ Historical Society was founded in 1961, when the Society arranged for the Historical Society of York County, Pennsylvania, to be its headquarters. In 1967, the collection was moved to the library of Ohio Wesleyan University in Delaware, Ohio, and in 1984, to Talbott Library, Westminster Choir College, Rider University, Princeton, New Jersey. Since its inception, the American Organ Archives has grown to be the largest repository of organ research materials in the world. It is maintained by the Organ Historical Society with the assistance of the staff at Talbott Library and directed by a Board of Governors.
The Archives is a closed stack, non-circulating collection, and materials must be used within the library. Access to catalogued books and pamphlets is available through the Talbott Library Reference Librarian. Uncatalogued or archival materials are available only by making an appointment with the Archivist.
Materials may be photocopied with the permission of the Archivist, although the Society reserves the right to deny photocopy permission for select items in the collection. Photographic reproduction may be arranged through the Archivist. A fee is charged for reproduction services. Permission of the Society must be obtained to use the materials for publication.
The American Organ Archives of
The Organ Historical Society
Talbott Library
Westminster Choir College
Rider University
101 Walnut Lane
Princeton, New Jersey 08540
609-921-7100
archivist@organsociety.org
Holdings
- 12,000 books about organs, organbuilding, organists, and organ music
- 450 periodical titles, including the largest body of organ serials anywhere
- 400 dissertations about organs, organbuilders, organists, and organ music
- 20,000 organ stoplists, photographs, and dedication programs
- 1,500 sales brochures, catalogs, and promotional publications from hundreds of organbuilders and firms
- 500 nameplates from various organbuilders and firms Tools, business records, and correspondence of defunct American organbuilding firms
- 5,000 Organ Postcards
- 15,000 Organ Photographs
- Records of the American Institute of Organbuilders
