Samuel Renn

Background

Renn was born in Kedleston, Derbyshire and in 1799 was apprenticed to his uncle, James Davis, an organ builder in London.

Career

Renn became his foreman and supervised organ installations and maintenance in London and in Lancashire. He died in Manchester in 1845. Renn developed a factory system for building organs, using standardised dimensions, thereby reducing the costs, while continuing to produce artistic designs.

Between 1822 and 1845 over 100 organs were produced by Renn.

Their musical properties have been praised by critics and material from the organs has frequently been re-used in their restorations. Many of the organs have been lost due to closure of churches.

The best surviving Renn organ is in Street Philip"s Church, Salford. Street John the Baptist"s Church, Bollington (some stops)

Street Mary"s Church, Disley (organ case and some stops)

Street Mary and All Saints Church, Great Budworth

Macclesfield Heritage Centre (formerly a Sunday School)

Street George"s Church, New Mills (case)

Street Thomas" Church, Pendleton

Street Philip"s Church, Salford

Street Thomas" Church, Stockport.

Connections

Partner:

John Boston