The organ at the Riley House was invented by Charles P. Bowlby. Specifically, it is a Princess Victorian parlor organ with 10 steps and swell paddle pumps. Charles P. Bowlby, originally a cabinet maker, got into the organ-making business with Hiram Alleger and Edward Plotts. Bowlby was from Washington, Warren County, New Jersey. He's buried in Easton, North Hampton County, Pennsylvania.

Hiram Alleger was also buried at Washington Cemetery in Warren County, New Jersey. He was a Corporal during the Civil War in Company I, 31st New Jersey Volunteer Infantry. His obituary reads “Hiram Alleger, one of the pioneer organ manufacturers in the country, died recently at his home in Washington, New Jersey, at the age of 86.” Mr. Alleger arrived in Washington in 1866. By 1870, he began manufacturing parlor organs. He took a leading part in organ manufacturing and production for more than 30 years. He is associated with Bowlby and Alleger, The Star Parlor Organ Co., The Ann Organ Co., and The Alleger Organ Co. After 1902, Alleger continued a mail order business in organs and pianos for up to two years at the time of his death.

The third business partner, Edward Plotts, is buried at Washington Cemetery in New Jersey. After leaving the partnership with Bowlby and Elleger in about 1880, he invented a new organ called “the Gem organ.” He had a storefront on Belvidere Avenue in Washington, New Jersey, but it is unknown if all production happened there.

If you are interested in hearing this lovely organ’s song, stop by the Riley House museum on a Monday or Friday between 9 and 5. Admission is free!