Brombaugh Opus 4 destroyed in fire

The First Evangelical Lutheran Church of downtown Lorain, Ohio, was struck by fire on the morning of August 28. Firefighters from at least four different districts worked to extinguish the flames of the red brick building of Gothic design, dating to 1924. The church’s John Brombaugh & Associates organ, Opus 4, a two manuals, 24-stop, 42-rank instrument, was a complete loss. The instrument was dedicated in service and recital on June 21, 1970, played by David S. Boe, the church’s organist and professor of organ at harpsichord at the Oberlin Conservatory of Music.

First Church has started funds to rebuild the sanctuary and to obtain a new organ. Donors may assist online by credit card or send a check. See www.firstlutheranlorain.org.