The search for an organ to replace the previous Hammond electronic organ of 40 years began in 1983. The Gene Bedient Company, of Lincoln, Nebraska recommended to the search committee the early 1900’s Hinners pipe organ weighing 3,290 lbs with one manual (split) keyboard and 9 ranks of 453 pipes. This organ became available when two Lutheran congregations merged.

It was 20 below zero and being stored in an unheated aircraft hanger at the Lincoln Airport when Organist Donna Nabors and former Music Director, Paula Owens arrived to inspect it. Once purchased, the corner of the sanctuary where it now resides had to be remodeled to accommodate it.

Gene and Gwen Bedient packed and transported the 1000’s of pieces themselves from Nebraska. They assembled and tuned the organ ready for the dedication service on Sunday, March 17th, 1985. The Hinners organ has served the church even since.

A new piano was purchased for the sanctuary replacing the previous piano, which has been in place since 1955. Our new piano is a Steinway & Sons model M manufactured in 1927, and rebuilt using genuine Steinway parts by Case Brothers in Spartanburg, SC. It is a beautiful quality instrument that will enhance our worship for many years to come, thanks to the work and research done on this project by Kay Tilley, Dr. Marianne Holland, and former Organist Carla Padgett.

These instruments are gifts from God to Pickens Presbyterian Church. We are thankful, and we respond by making music with them that glorify God in this place.