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Preserving a Century of History: Restoring the Stained Glass at First Christian Church in Columbus, Kansas
The First Christian Church in Columbus, Kansas is a prominent landmark, celebrated not only for its historical importance but also for its stunning stained glass windows. Created in 1912, these windows have witnessed more than a century of community gatherings, prayers, and celebrations. Yet, as with any masterpiece, time has gradually taken its toll on these exquisite panes.
In the late ’60s, these beautiful windows were lovingly restored, and a protective glass layer was added to shield them. Now, more than 50 years later, and just over a century since their original installation, the windows began to face challenges again. Given that stained glass restoration is typically expected to last around 100 years, it became evident that further intervention was necessary to preserve these historical treasures.
Understanding the Needs of the First Christian Church
When the First Christian Church reached out to us, their main concern was the appearance and deterioration of the protective glass, which had started to crack and degrade. They sought our expertise for an assessment and evaluation of the situation.
We recommended carrying out a detailed assessment, not just of the protective glass, but also of the stained glass itself and the supporting frames. This thorough evaluation unveiled that 60% of the windows were failing, along with severe wood rot in the frames, which could lead to further decay and eventual failure if not addressed promptly.
The Restoration Process
Without our comprehensive assessment, the First Christian Church could have encountered significant complications down the road, possibly resulting in the loss of these historical windows. We embarked on a meticulous restoration process to ensure the church’s stained glass would once again shine brightly and stand resilient for decades to come.
Our team diligently restored the 60% of the windows that were failing, repairing each damaged pane with utmost care. Alongside this, we repaired and restored the wood framing and trim. This was essential to prevent further wood rot and maintain the structural integrity that these historical gems deserve.
A Future-Proof Solution
The restoration process is ongoing because preserving these windows is more than just a project; it is a promise to protect a century-old legacy. The final installation will feature a white illuminated frame around the stained glass, equipped with ventilation. This innovative addition is designed to help the stained glass last another 100 years, as proper ventilation is critical to maintaining the longevity of stained glass art.
Restoring the stained glass at First Christian Church in Columbus, Kansas is a testament to our dedication to preserving historical beauty and cultural heritage. We recognize the significance of these windows beyond their visual appeal and consider it a privilege to extend their life through our work.
Contact Us for Your Stained Glass Needs
At Custom Stained Glass, we are passionate about preserving history and beauty through expert stained glass restoration. If you are experiencing similar issues with your stained glass windows or have questions about the process, our dedicated team is here to help. Please contact us via our website, call us at (866) 846-5758, or email us at contact@customstainedglass.com. We look forward to helping you preserve your cherished stained glass masterpieces for generations to come.
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