THE MOLINE CABINET ORGAN COMPANY

 

Moline Organ Company

Company history:

Was incorporated Dec. 19, 1881. Peter Colseth was elected president and treasurer ; Wm. Josephson, secretary. President Colseth was chosen superintendent and general manager. The company's works consist of the following described buildings, which are fitted with necessary machinery and stock:

Main building, 30 x 60 feet, three stories high, which constitutes the principal workshops and finishing rooms. A second building, 24x50 feet, two stories high, contains the store room, packing room and of­ fice. A suitable engine room, of one story, is in the rear. The company employ an average of 20 men, and have an invested capital of between $45,000 and $50,000. This company was founded by Peter Colseth and Charles C. Leaberg, in 1877.

These gentlemen were both practical mechanics, thoroughly skilled in their business under the rigid rules of the trade in their native country (Sweden), which was supplemented by several years' experience in some of the most extensive organ works in America. They began with the limited capital of $1,000, their workshops being in the upper story of an old building on Railroad Avenue. The first three years were spent in the old shop, working to great disadvantage and against many obstacles. At the expiration of that time they had demonstrated their ability to carry on the business successfully. They then purchased suitable grounds, on the corner of Seventh Street and Fourth Avenue, and erected their present commodious buildings. On December 19, 1881, as be­ fore stated, the company was incorporated as a stock company. Wm. Josephson, Lewis P. Youngren, C. G. Thulin and John Peterson became stockholders.

The present officers are Peter Colseth, President; C. G. Thulin, Treasurer; John Peterson, Secretary. This company is doing a safe and profitable business. The principal managers are practical mechanics and give their shops a personal supervision that in­ sures perfection in their work. Their organs are elegantly and substantially finished and perfect in every detail. The rapid growth of their trade and very general satisfaction of their customers speak volumes for the merit of their instruments.

Often referred to as the Swedish Organ Co. because of its orientation toward the Swedish -American market

 

Picture from Lilly Setterdahl

Portrait and Biographical Album of Rock Island, IL.

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Illinois Ancestors

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