The Red River Chapter

of the

American Theatre Organ Society

                             

     

ATOS Organists

Lance Johnson

Dave Knudtson

Lloyd Collins

Steve Eneboe

                  

      

Photo by Heliostudio, Bill Kloubec

The Auditorium of the Historic Fargo Theatre and its Mighty Wurlitzer Console

Built in 1926, the Fargo Theatre hosted vaudeville and silent movies.  Its 2/7 Wurlitzer was played by Hildegarde Usselman Kraus.  The organ was heard on WDAY radio during the 30s and 40s, but not used during the 50s and 60s.  Restoration of the instrument began in 1973, and it has since been used weekends for live music before films and special "Silent Movie Night" shows.  Under the direction of organ builder Lance Johnson the organ has evolved to a 4/21, and is constantly being improved.  The theatre itself was completely restored in 1999.