Stained Glass in America: Part 1– The People

This modern design is one of many from the Stained Glass Inc. collection.

The First American Glass

The people who played roles in the evolution of American stained glass included early American colonist Captain John Smith of Jamestown, who publicly praised the efforts of glassmakers there.  His confidence in Jamestown’s glass artists was promising to

consumers in England, where forests were shrinking as sources of wood for glass furnaces.  In Jamestown, glass products included primarily bottles and window glass, launching a proud tradition of American glass, soon to blossom into stained glass.

That tradition was founded on skill and beauty by people who were passionate about the crafting of beautiful works of stained glass art.  Besides Captain Smith there were many others who played a part in fostering America’s love affair with stained glass; Wistar, Amelung, Steigle and Jarves kept the art alive though struggling through the 1600s and 1700s. Evert Duyckingh, a Dutchman who gave New York, when it was still New Amsterdam, a number of small, round or square windows common in Dutch homes, often depicting family coats of arms, his fee typically two and one half beavers.  His work included a window depiction of the coat of arms of New Amsterdam for City Hall.

Stained Glass in American Churches

Since American churches of that period were traditionally plain, sometimes windowless, stained glass was not commonly used.  It was not until 1843 that a stained glass window, created by William Bolton, a student of Samuel F. B. Morse, was placed in the Nativity for Christ Church in Pelham, New York, followed in 1844 by a window in Holy Trinity Church in Brooklyn.

William Bolton’s younger brother, John, also a pioneer in American stained glass, became pastor at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in West Chester, Pennsylvania, where he helped design stained glass windows, and where the chancel window by La Farge memorializes the Bolton family.

Stained Glass For Today’s Needs

Stained glass as an industry was on its way by the 1900s, as artists and studios flourished, with renowned designers such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Tiffany glass creator Louis B. Comfort, leading the field.  Today, stained glass can be viewed all across America in churches, casinos, universities, medical centers, homes, high-end clubs and dozens more venues.  Stained Glass, Inc. of Greenville, Texas is America’s foremost stained glass studio, with clients nationwide.  Specializing in custom created stained glass designs that cater to client needs, bringing ideas to life in color and light.

Today, the crucial characters in the stained glass story are designers and artists, such as those at Stained Glass, Inc., who craft breathtaking works of stained glass art using a unique blend of cutting edge technology and old world artistry.  Panels are unique and versatile, easily installed behind existing windows or as stand alone glass art and can even be rotated to reflect holidays, feast days and special occasions.  Intense colors and reflected light cast an elegant glow into every corner and flawless imagery ensures a superior design for every purpose.  Durable polymer and heat fused mineral pigments make Stained Glass, Inc. artwork tough and long lasting as well as exquisite and inspiring.

Why Stained Glass, Inc.?

Imagine having the perfect piece of stained glass art to reflect your tastes and set your space aglow.  It’s easy to find just what you’re looking for with a virtual stroll through Stained Glass, Inc.’s extensive online gallery at http://stainedglassinc.com/ then contact the experts to discuss your ideas.  Our professionals are available for advice, guidance and support for your stained glass project from beginning to end.