A Philadelphia Icon Faces an Uncertain Future

Philadelphia’s Wanamaker Organ, a musical behemoth housed within the historic Wanamaker building (most recently a Macy’s department store), faces a turning point. As Macy’s prepares to close its doors at the end of business on Sunday, March 23, 2025, the future of this magnificent instrument hangs in the balance. On Saturday, March 22, devotees from across the country gathered to celebrate the organ’s legacy adn express hope for its continued preservation and public performance.

The Wanamaker Organ isn’t just large; it’s a cultural landmark. Built for the 1904 St. Louis World’s fair and later installed in Philadelphia, it has become synonymous with the city’s identity, akin to the Liberty Bell or cheesesteaks. Its sheer scale is breathtaking. Consider this comparison:

Ray Biswanger, executive director of the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ, emphasized the instrument’s unique qualities, telling Smithsonian Magazine in 2015, “A lot of people are surprised that the organ can have subtlety, nuance, expression, lyricism…” This quote underscores the organ’s breadth, capable of both earth-shaking power and delicate musicality.

Biswanger reiterated the community’s commitment, stating, “Whatever the future holds, the turnout Saturday was a testament to the millions of dollars and decades of time that ensured the organ’s sonorous melodies were heard for decades at two daily concerts.”

millions Invested, Dividends Enjoyed

The preservation of the Wanamaker Organ has been a collaborative effort, requiring continuous investment. Biswanger highlighted this commitment: “We have a whole team, a restoration team. We’ve invested millions of dollars. Macy’s has invested millions of dollars in the organ…The community is enjoying that now,and it’s just wonderful to see the dividends that that investment is making and the place it has in the hearts of the people here,and the common shared experience of so many to enjoy the grandeur of this pipe organ in Philadelphia’s living room.”

This statement acknowledges Macy’s crucial role in the organ’s upkeep over the past two decades.Thier financial contributions and stewardship have ensured its continued operation and accessibility to the public. The loss of Macy’s raises concerns about future funding and maintenance.

The impact of this investment extends beyond mere preservation; it fosters a sense of community and shared cultural experience. The daily concerts have become a tradition for many, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life.In an era of increasing digital isolation, the Wanamaker Organ provides a tangible connection to history and a shared experience that transcends generations.

A Pilgrimage of Sound

The final days of Macy’s tenure drew fans from far and wide. John Libertine, traveling from the Boston area, exemplifies the dedication of the organ’s devotees. He has made annual pilgrimages to Philadelphia with his family as 2008 specifically for Wanamaker Organ Day. John Libertine recalled bringing his newborn son in 2015 “My wife graciously allowed me to bring the family down here…It was probably not a comfortable day for her,but she tolerated it and forgave me sometime later. And so he was here in my arms in 2015 mostly with his eyes closed for his first organ concert.” This personal anecdote illustrates the profound impact the organ has on individuals and families, creating lasting memories and traditions.

Libertine expressed a sense of closure and uncertainty, sharing that, “This will be the last day we hear the instrument in the space that it was designed for…Whatever changes come the way for the building, everybody hopes the organ will be a huge part of it, but it will always be different then it is indeed today.”

Acknowledging Macy’s Stewardship

Despite the impending closure, there is a consensus that Macy’s played a vital role in maintaining the organ’s prominence.Steffa acknowledged Macy’s contribution,stating that “Macy’s had been absolutely,absolutely wonderful in their regard and their stewardship of it and paying the salaries that they paid,and,you know,putting money into it…We’ll be ever forever, forever grateful for what they did and have done.” This recognition is critically important, as it underscores the potential for corporate entities to contribute to the preservation of cultural treasures.

A Treasure Worth Preserving

Looking ahead, the overarching sentiment is one of hope that the Wanamaker Organ will continue to be played and enjoyed by the public. Steffa passionately declared, “This is a national treasure. This is a world treasure, and it’s got to be preserved and continued, and continue to be played for the public.” This sentiment echoes the feelings of countless individuals who recognize the organ’s significance as a cultural artifact and a source of inspiration.

One potential avenue for ensuring the organ’s future is exploring partnerships with philanthropic organizations, arts foundations, or government agencies. Triumphant models of cultural preservation in the U.S. include the Smithsonian Institution, which relies on a combination of federal funding and private donations, and the national Trust for Historic Preservation, which works with local communities to protect historic sites and landmarks. Applying similar strategies to the Wanamaker Organ could secure its long-term viability.

As Philadelphia reflects on the end of the Macy’s era, the focus shifts to ensuring the Wanamaker organ’s survival.Its future depends on continued community support, innovative funding solutions, and a shared commitment to preserving this invaluable piece of American musical history.The instrument’s ability to evoke powerful emotions and create shared experiences makes it a treasure worth fighting for.