Our 1893 Estey Parlor Pump Organ Repurposed

This 1893 Estey pump organ called out to us at a local thrift shop. The case was made of solid cherry hard wood, all in excellent original condition. With its beautiful Victorian wood work and turnings, multiple candle holders, and music shelf, it seemed a pity to pass it up. It measured 72" tall and 50" wide, and it weighed a ton. We weren't sure what we could do with it, but we bought it anyway and hauled it home. The price was right -- just $68.

It turned out that the organ needed a complete rebuild, and cost wise, that was not an option. So, we tore out all of the reed organ parts and sold them on Ebay. With the proceeds, we purchased an electric fireplace insert for it. Our son John and wife Libby modified the front and installed the flame unit with heater using existing doors and panels -- and Libby even built a matching display shelf for the front. I can't tell you how much I enjoy decorating my new mantelpiece -- and how we love watching the fire glow! It certainly makes for a great conversational piece. This is just another idea of what you can do to repurpose that dusty old parlor pump organ.