Petrus van Oeckelen (1792-1878) was a renowned Dutch organ builder and carillonneur. Born in Breda, he was the son of Cornelis van Oeckelen, an accomplished clockmaker, organ, and piano builder. Petrus learned the craft from his father and, in 1810, moved to Groningen where he played the carillon at the Martinikerk. By 1837, he had established himself as an organ builder in Harendermolen near Glimmen, taking over the workshop of the late Johannes Wilhelmus Timpe. Throughout his career, Petrus married Joanna Maria Theresia Auwerda and fathered six children, three of whom continued the family tradition in organ building.

Van Oeckelen's contributions to organ building were significant, particularly in the northern Netherlands. He built numerous organs primarily for Protestant churches but also crafted an instrument for the Catholic Broerkerk in Groningen. His work is noted for maintaining high craftsmanship while incorporating standardization techniques. His organs often featured distinctive elements such as the Viola da gamba stop and mechanically operated tractures. The design of his organ cases typically included three round towers, intricate carvings, and decorative elements like lyres and eagles. Despite some modernizing alterations to historic organs, van Oeckelen's restorations were generally respectful, preserving the instruments' original integrity. His legacy continued through his sons and extended to other organ builders who learned from his methods.

https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Petrus_van_Oeckelen