St. Joseph Catholic Church, located in Ponchatoula, Louisiana, is home to a truly unique instrument. Upon entering this jewel of Louisiana's small-town landscape, we would expect to find an organ of perhaps the Pilcher Brothers, or one of the fine trackers of that era. But instead, we were are greeted to the strains of a beautiful Tibia , Vox, and Tremulants!

Yes, St. Joseph Church is not your ordinary rural Louisiana Catholic Church when it comes to music. Early in the Church's history, a local theatre owner made a decision to transplant this five rank Wicks theatre organ from his local movie palace to St. Joseph's Church. The organ plays today thanks to pastor Father Justin Kauchak, O.P. and Mr. Rene Folse who has seen to its maintenance over the last two years.

The Direct-acting Wicks action has proven its durability as most of the organ is still playing. Some water damage and key wear is evident, however, Father Kauchak has taken necessary steps to plan for the organ's continued use.

Above, the Wicks Direct Electric trademark is clearly visible. Yellow stops at center are the only remains of the organ's tuned and un tuned percussions. Only a set of chimes remains in the percussion division, however, relay components from original toy counter are still in place.

The organ is made up of a Tibia, Vox, Flute, Sting and Horn Diapason. While the instrument has gracefully made the transition from theatre to church, a few moments at the console reveal that the organ still remembers its past as a mighty theatre instrument.

With only a few exceptions, pipe work is in excellent condition. An inspection of the instrument revealed that much of the original voicing and regulation is still present.