Adlington (Cheshire), Adlington Hall

ascribed to Bernard “Father” Smith, but maybe an organ maker following Harris' traditions, year unknown as well. Ascribed to second half 17th century on stylistic grounds, a coat of arms on the case indicates 1693 as a latest date for building this organ.

1741/2 repaired by Glyn & Parker, further repairs c.1780 and 1860; restored by Noel P. Mander in 1959.

The organ of Adlington Hall is one of the few instruments showing typical elements of English organs before 1700. A traditional "Great" with diapasons of 8' upwards, with few alternatives  (Stopped 8', Block flute 2' [divided] and one loud and one solo reed stop) is opposed by a "choir" intended only for solo use and soft accompaniments. There is no pedal, if ever an English organ had one it was usually only attached to the "great."