A Legacy Renewed: Hershey Theatre Historic Organ to Begin a New Chapter

A Legacy Renewed: Hershey Theatre Historic Organ to Begin a New Chapter

Instrument To Be Moved to Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick in 2027

Hershey Theatre's historic four-manual, 69-rank Aeolian-Skinner concert organ-commissioned by Milton Hershey in 1931-stands as one of the most extraordinary musical instruments created for a theatrical space in Pennsylvania. Featuring more than 4,000 pipes and 25 bells, the organ was designed as a centerpiece of artistry, technical excellence and community pride. It embodied a moment when live music and grand architecture combined to create shared cultural experiences.

In 2027, Hershey Theatre is planning to relocate the organ to the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where it will begin a new chapter rooted in daily use, preservation and public access. "This transition represents a renewal of purpose - ensuring that this beautiful instrument is once again heard regularly and fully brought back to life," said Don Papson, executive director of The M.S. Hershey Foundation, which has operated Hershey Theatre since 1970. "The organ, in its new home, will be played more than 300 times a year." The decision to relocate the organ reflects the changing nature of theatrical performance. "Large, complex concert organs-once central to theatrical life, especially during the vaudeville era-are no longer regularly played in modern performance spaces," said Papson. "At Saint Patrick's, the organ will be played several times each week, supporting liturgy, concerts, education and community gatherings. It will be actively maintained and musically relevant."

The organ's new home is deeply connected to the Hershey family's legacy. Catherine Hershey-wife of Milton Hershey-was a parishioner at Saint Patrick and a significant benefactor during the Cathedral's construction in the early 20th century. Mr. and Mrs. Hershey contributed substantial funds toward its creation, and their generosity is permanently recognized as a "Founder" in the church narthex under the name "Mrs. M.S. Hershey." Father Joshua Brommer, pastor of the Cathedral Parish of Saint Patrick, expressed profound gratitude and excitement at the organ's arrival: "This organ is a blessing-not only to the Cathedral, but to the entire Harrisburg community. To receive an instrument of this magnitude, history and craftsmanship is truly humbling. We are very much looking forward to honoring its legacy by giving it a voice, week after week, in worship, in education and through our public concert series."

"The Cathedral is committed to securing the funding required for the upcoming organ project," noted Father Brommer. "Our hope is to remove the pipes from Hershey Theatre in 2027, followed by the refurbishment of the organ console. Our goal is to complete the final installation of the organ inside the Cathedral in 2029." "While we will certainly feel the loss of the organ at Hershey Theatre, this relocation is about stewardship, rather than removal," Papson said. "The instrument is being restored to active life in a space that aligns with both its musical power and the Hershey family's philanthropic values." "Milton Hershey believed deeply in cultural access, education and long-term community benefit. Allowing this magnificent organ to sing again-regularly, publicly, and reverently-is fully consistent with that legacy," noted Papson.

**While the final agreement for the organ's transfer is expected in 2026, certain details of the transaction are still being finalized.**