The purpose of this study is to examine the early years of the Holtkamp Organ Company and show how the design philosophy of Walter Holtkamp, Sr., had its roots in these early instruments. The study will track the evolution of the Holtkamp Organ Company from its beginning as G. F. Votteler through the time Walter Holtkamp, Sr, assumed total control. The research focuses on understanding of how the organs were designed, what they sounded like, and how they were used by organists, as well as the changes Holtkamp went through on its way to becoming one of the premier organ building firms in the United States during the mid Twentieth Century. Case studies of five representative instruments include discussion of design elements and function, and how both changed over time. Early instruments followed an English Model common at the time, and were based on principal chorus and ensemble blend. Later instruments became more Romantic, focusing on individual colors and gradually abandoning the chorus completely. During the tenure of Walter Holtkamp, Sr, the company came full circle, returning to the chorus and ensemble concept as it became an important player in the Organ Reform Movement. Throughout its history, however, the company kept a basic philosophy of building small, well-designed and crafted instruments that require minimal repairs and remain usable for generations.