Macy’s Shuts Down Historic Philly Store, Leaving 7-Floor Building Emptied

Macy’s is closing another department store, but this time, it won’t just be a shopping hub that’s being lost. The upscale seven-story Macy’s in the middle of Philadelphia’s city center will close its doors for good on Sunday, putting an end to in-person retailing at the location.

While the closure is significant news for the loyal patrons of the store, it also questions what becomes of one of its most valued possessions. The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ has been a part of the building since it was first constructed over a century ago, and a central part of the store’s history.

Wanamaker Grand Court Organ will play until Macy’s closing

During the last day of the store, Wanamaker Grand Court Organ will give the store the send-off that it deserves as it plays the whole day. According to a report by the Philadelphia Inquirer, this closing concert will be led by Peter Richard Conte, Wanamaker Grand Court Organist since 1989, and a group of other skilled organists.

Free recitals will begin at 9 a.m. and continue until about 6:30 p.m., this will ensure that the final closing hours for the store are filled with the deep tones of the organ. The Wanamaker Grand Court Organ has been a part of Philadelphia’s musical tradition for decades. It has been played twice daily, six days a week, entrancing shoppers with its music.

What happens to the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ when Macy’s closes?

While Macy’s is closing soon, the Wanamaker Grand Court Organ will remain. The real estate company TF Cornerstone, which owns part of the Wanamaker Building and is acquiring complete ownership, has said that it is dedicated to preserving the historic organ.

A January statement by TF Cornerstone acknowledged the organ’s cultural and historical significance. The company emphasized its dedication to preserving the organ as a part of the space. Officials are negotiating with the Friends of the Wanamaker Organ, a group dedicated to the preservation of the organ, Macy’s, and other stakeholders to determine the most appropriate course of action.