Shortly before leaving BC to drive to Cape Breton, I heard of a 170 year old pipe organ in a Catholic church on Isle Madame. Notre Dame de l’assumption, located on the small community of Arichat, NS is the home of a 1-manual tracker organ, built by Henry Berger in 1854.
The day after arriving last week, I went to see the organ. The care-taker at the church was expecting me (news travels quickly on the east coast!) and gave me a quick history lesson, and told me I could come back and play it anytime. Sunday morning they were expecting me, and the church members heard the organ which has been silent for many years.
This antique instrument has given me inspiration to research the history of that particular organ, and the church. At one point this church was a Cathedral and is the oldest Catholic Church in Nova Scotia. It was founded in 1786. The new building was built in 1837, and the organ bought in the 1850s.
When I practice that organ I try to imagine what it might have been like 170 years ago when the church was full of Acadians, and Irish immigrants. Back when there would have been a large choir full of young, strong voices; when congregations would have been large with babies and children included among the adults and elderly.
Last Sunday morning I attended the service. When I walked into the building I was immediately recognized — simply because no-one recognized me. They knew I was a newcomer, and word had already spread that I was an organist from “away”. The congregation was happy that the organ would speak again, at least for a couple of months.
Reflections 
What a beautiful piece of history with this organ. Sounds like you were an instant hit even before you hit the first note – which I am sure you were!
I can’t for the life of me figure out how anyone can play such a complex instrument – is it called an instrument?
What an honor and a privilege to bring life to the organ, the church and the people who attended. Good for you!
LikeLiked by 1 person