What does someone who spends all day mounting exhibits at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History do when he gets home? Why, he stages vignettes of his collections, of course. Please join us on a tour of the home of Brian Jensen. His vast collection, which includes Victrolas, vintage appliances, and a working 1927 Wurlitzer theatre pipe organ, are a must-see. Wine and cheese will be served.
Jensen House
27 East 21st Street, 21218
Wednesday, April 13, 2011 | 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
$15 for members; $20 for non-members
RSVP today!
Space is limited so sign up early! Confirmations will be sent by email, and payment will be due upon confirmation. For additional information and questions, call Marsha Wise at 443-306-3369, or email wise@baltimoreheritage.org.
Brian Jensen purchased his circa 1879 rowhouse in 1976. Although it was in need of much repair, Brian saw the home’s potential in the high ceilings, curved walls, carved staircase, and wall niches. He took advantage of a low-interest loan offered by Baltimore City to make it inhabitable. Today it houses over 40 years of collecting. When a power-outage hits the neighborhood his home is the only one still ablaze in light as the home boasts period gas chandeliers. Brian’s most prize possession is his working 1927 Wurlitzer pipe organ. The organ was removed from the State Theatre in Winston-Salem, North Carolina and brought to Maryland by its purchaser. Brian, a lover of pipe organ music, jumped at the opportunity to buy it when the Maryland owner decided to sell. He and the organ were meant to be together. He had a great-aunt Winnie who had been a silent film organist at the end of the era. Recalling that she had mentioned living in North Carolina, he asked her about the State Theatre. She said, “I remember playing that organ.” The blowers for the organ reside in Brian’s basement and the pipes are installed in a room on the third floor.