Historical society and fair board discuss options to preserve Bergstrom organ; restoration and lease explored

Commissioners on May 1 updated the commission about ongoing talks to preserve and, if feasible, restore the Bergstrom organ housed in the fairgrounds’ Oregon Room.

The chair summarized a recent meeting involving members of the Fair Association Board and representatives of the El Dorado County Historical Society. According to the commission, the parties reached a conceptual agreement to explore improvements to the organ’s exterior and to consider a lease or other protective arrangement that would help keep the instrument in place while tenant improvements proceed at the fairgrounds.

Commissioners said the Fair Association Board indicated it could proceed with tenant improvements but expressed interest in improving the organ’s attractiveness so the space would remain marketable. The Historical Society is prepared to lead or facilitate exterior refinishing, and representatives reportedly asked organ specialists (a firm from the Bay Area with a long history of organ work) to assess options, cost and whether the instrument could survive disassembly and off‑site restoration if needed.

Commissioners cautioned that moving the organ could risk further damage. "It may not survive that movement," the chair said. Participants discussed modest restoration and refinishing on site and potential fundraising or partnership paths if a full restoration becomes feasible.

The commission noted no binding agreement yet exists; the Historical Society’s board and the Fair Association Board must complete internal approvals. Commissioners said they would monitor developments and expect follow‑up updates either through the Historical Society or future commission meetings.