Since we plan to have a painted case for the 105 rather than finished in natural wood, the organ case will be constructed of poplar wood.
The width of the case can be predicted by the width of the windchest.
Since we know that the windchest fills the complete width of the case,
the windchest measurement gives us an indication of the width of the
case. Using this measurement plus a bit of space on either side to allow
removal and insertion, we have the inside measurement of the width of the
case. We use the depth and height measurements obtained from the
Stanoszek plans and the Neilson 105.
So, having determined the internal dimensions of the organ case, we can
calculate the external dimensions of the case. The shape of the various
pieces of the case are drawn on paper along with the measurements of each
piece. Then, we are off to the lumber yard to order the wood which will
be cut and finished to the exact size.
With the pieces of the case now in hand, we can begin the assembly of the case. At this point, we will only assemble the basic case, without the front trim and back components. This detail work will be saved for later.
Photo A shows the assembly of the lower section of the case. The lower
section is shown upside down. Wurlitzer used a solid bottom on their
organs. This served to protect the bottom pipes from damage while it was
being moved around and also provided a bit of protection from ground
moisture when the organ was sitting on bare ground with a portable
carousel. We will use two strips of wood with casters rather than the
solid bottom. This organ will be in a protected environment and this will
allow easier access to the bottom pipes for tuning etc.
Photo B shows the lower section of the case, now in an upright position.
The bottom of the main part of the case is now in place. Photo C shows
the sides and the top of the organ case assembled on the lower part of
the case as viewed from the back.
Photo D shows the front of the case with the vertical channel board in place. The channels in this board will conduct the wind pressure from the windchest to blow the bottom pipes. These pipes will be mounted to the underside of the bottom of the main case.
Photo E shows the construction of one of organ side tables which will
hold a drum. We used the wings on our style 125 organ as a pattern to
determine the shape and size.
We now have something to look at while working on the internal parts.
Dr. Bill Black is one of the nation's most knowledgeble Wurlitzer band organ experts. He has made recordings of many band organs and other mechanical music machines which are available for purchase at CarouselStores.com.