The Great Stalacpipe Organ

The Great Stalacpipe Organ is a musical instrument made from 37 stalactites scattered throughout the cavern system and struck by rubber mallets to produce sound. These natural formations were carefully selected and modified to generate different musical notes that work together as a functioning underground orchestra.

An engineer named Leland Sprinkle spent three years between 1954 and 1957 selecting and modifying stalactites to create specific musical tones. This unusual project created the first and only instrument of its kind inside a cavern.

Performances at the Great Stalacpipe Organ began in 1880 when Andrew Campbell played folk tunes and hymns for Smithsonian Institution representatives.

The instrument is protected by special heating equipment since the high humidity of the caverns could damage the electronic components. Visitors should be aware that conditions underground are cool and damp.

Each of the 37 stalactites produces a different tone when struck and is connected to rubber mallets operated by hand by musicians. This makes every performance a direct interplay between human touch and natural stone.

GPS coordinates: 38.66431,-78.48381

Latest update: December 7, 2025 19:28