AUBURN — The Court Street Baptist Church, 129 Court St., has scheduled an open house from 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 11, as a part of the celebration of their 150th anniversary. The event is open to the public without charge.

The focus will be the Hook organ, opus 547, installed in July 1870 and purchased entirely by fundraising activities of the women of the church. The Hook and Hastings firm are considered among the great organ builders of the world.

At 2:30 p.m., Dan Burgess will explain and demonstrate the characteristics of the instrument. Burgess is a local vocalist, piano player and organist. He is active in the choir of the Court Street Baptist Church of Auburn as well as the Community Little Theater and Poland Regional High School fine arts programs.  

“For this demonstration I will be detailing the history and music of the pipe organ instrument,” he said. “People also will have the chance to see the inner workings of the organ at the Court Street church.”

Attendees will also have the opportunity to observe and learn about the stained glass windows installed almost 100 years ago. A handout will explain their background and symbolism. In addition, one may view the murals at the front of the sanctuary that were painted in 1927 by Harry Cochrane of Monmouth, the same year that he painted the murals in Lewiston’s Kora Temple.