Five things you didn’t know about the famous Spreckles Pipe Organ

by Debbie L. Sklar • Times of San Diego

23 young women with drums and marimbas on stage at Spreckel’s Organ Pavilion; drums are labeled: “BEECHNUT GUM”, photo labeled: “AMERICA’S EXPOSITION / SAN DIEGO – CALIFORNIA / MAY 29th – NOV 11th, 1935″. Eighteen signatures on back: Maxine Richards, Ella, Clotilda Clearw[illegible], Irene Sanderson, Audrey Sheller, Mrs. C. D. Smith, Wanda Jensen, Genevieve Trent, Viola A. Graves, [illegible] D. Smith, Leona Hubbard, Arlene Mansfield, Joyce Mansfield, Lois Jensen, Gay Woodward, Frances K. Mehl, Gladys Albertieri, Mary Blackburn”. (Photo courtesy of San Diego History Center)

Now that you’ve learned more about San Diego’s Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park, here are five things you may not have known about this iconic landmark.

While it’s best known for its massive outdoor pipe organ and more than a century of free concerts, even longtime San Diegans might be surprised by some of the pavilion’s lesser-known details.

Here are five things you probably didn’t know:

It was built for everyone
Unlike most large organs of the early 20th century, the Spreckels Organ was designed to be completely open to the public, giving all visitors free access to music.
One of the world’s largest outdoor organs
With 4,518 pipes, some more than 32 feet long, it’s widely regarded as one of the largest outdoor pipe organs in the world, capable of filling Balboa Park with sound without any amplification.
A massive first performance
On Dec. 31, 1914, the dedication featured the San Diego Popular Orchestra and a 250-voice People’s Chorus, making the first music played a full orchestral and choral experience.
Built to withstand the elements
Exposed to sun, wind, and occasional rain for more than a century, the organ has survived thanks to careful maintenance and restoration efforts, keeping its historic sound alive for modern audiences.
A training ground for musicians
Many prominent organists and composers began performing at the pavilion, helping to establish Balboa Park as a center of cultural and musical excellence in San Diego.

From its first grand performance to its ongoing Sunday concerts, the Spreckels Organ continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike. These fascinating details remind us that the pavilion is more than just a structure—it’s a living testament to generosity, vision, and the city’s love of music.

For more flashbacks, five things, click here.

Sources:
Spreckels Organ Society of San Diego
San Diego History Center
Balboa Park Cultural Partnership
City of San Diego Parks & Recreation Department
Library of Congress, Performing Arts Division
Smithsonian Institution, American Organ History references