Karn-Warren Organ Co.
1911

Andrew Henderson on October 27th, 2023:
From *The Expositor* (Brantford, ON, October 11, 1911): "The formal opening of the large organ in the First Baptist Church took place last evening. Mr. David L. Wright, organist and choirmaster of the church, was solo organist for the evening. The program, chosen to represent modern organists of different nationalities, gave full scope of all the beautiful orchestral effects that can be obtained from a concert organ such as the First Church now possesses. Mr. Wright proved himself fully equal to all the demands of the exacting program. In smoothness of registration, accuracy of technique, and keen appreciation of rich tonal contrasts he has shown himself thoroughly master of this, the rightly called 'king of instruments.' A detailed specification will be found later, but mention should be made of the especially beautiful mellow quality of the reed and flute stops; also of the very quick response of the action. The builders of the organ are the Karn-Warren Organ Co. of Woodstock, are to be warmly congratulated on the great excellency of the solo stops, and while these are of the finest quality, they have evidently taken great care that the effect of the full organ is not harsh in the least, but in perfect balance. Great credit must be given to Dr. A. S. Vogt of Toronto, who personally overlooked the specifications and formally inspected the organ for the church when completed."

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Andrew Henderson on October 27th, 2023:
From *The Expositor* (January 14, 1922): "In 1888, realizing the desirability of beautifying the choral music of the church, Mr. John Harris donated a two-manual organ built by the Bell Company, of Guelph. This instrument was noted for its particularly sweet tone. In 1911, largely due to the generous efforts of Mr. George S. Matthews, the present splendid organ was installed. On this occasion, however, it was decided to retain the pipes of the original instrument on account of their tuneful and pleasing qualities. They were accordingly included. The present instrument was made by the Karn-Warren Company, of Woodstock. It is a three-manual organ has 39 stops. It includes a set of 20 tubular chimes presented by the family of the late Mr. John Harris."