First Universalist Unitarian Church of Wausau
Echoes in Glass
Restoring the Living Light of Our Historic Windows
Two extraordinary art glass windows have graced our sanctuary since 1915. After more than 110 years of faithful service, they need our help. Together, we are answering that call.
Our Story
A Century of Light & Memory
Our 1914 sanctuary, designed by architect Alexander C. Eschweiler and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, holds two masterworks of American art glass: the Nativity window over the altar and the Three Wise Men window above the choir loft. Both were created in 1915 by the Milwaukee Mirror and Art Glass Works and given as memorials by founding families of this congregation.
These windows have filtered light into our shared life for over a century, marking baptisms and memorial services, Christmas mornings and ordinary Sundays. After 110 years with no prior restoration, both windows show significant cracking, bowing, and stress fractures. Without skilled care, we risk permanent loss of irreplaceable works.
“The images on these windows cannot be claimed by any one sect, but are timeless in symbolizing the depth of the human experience.”Jim Olsen • Church Member, 1949 to 2002
The Windows
Two Works of Enduring Art
Mary holds the Christ child, with Joseph at her side, two shepherds, and a shepherd with a sheepdog kneeling at Joseph’s right. The scene conveys warmth, welcome, and the universal hope that greets every new life.
Donated by D.L. Plumer and Mary Jane Draper Plumer in memory of Bradbury G. Plumer (1830 to 1886).
“Glory to God in the Highest and on Earth Peace Goodwill Toward Men”
Melchior, Gaspar, and Balthasar, left to right, each bearing their gifts: a gold box filled with precious stones, a gold bar and closed box, and a gold incense container on a chain. Regal, imperious, and full of wonder.
Donated by William B. Scholfield in memory of Mary S. Scholfield (1833 to 1893). Inscribed: Milwaukee Mirror & Art Glass Works, 1915.
“We have seen a star in the East and have come to worship him”
The Project
Where We Stand
Echoes in Glass: Restoring the Living Light of Wausau’s Historic Stained Glass Windows includes full restoration of both windows by Gilbertson’s Stained Glass Studio, plus professional documentation of their history for future generations.
The congregation’s Endowment Committee has guaranteed the funds necessary for the project, ensuring financial stability while fundraising efforts continue.
Get Involved
How You Can Be Part of This
Good stewardship of this beautiful church is something we practice together. Every act of support, large and small, helps carry these windows into the next century.
Make a one time gift, a pledge, or a recurring gift through Realm. Select the Stained Glass Window Restoration fund (choose “Add Fund” if you do not see it).
Gifts may also be made by check, gift of stock, IRA distribution, or estate gift. Gifts may be made in memory of a loved one or in honor of someone special, and anonymous gifts are always welcome. Contact the church office for details.
Do you have a memory tied to these windows, or a family connection to the congregation’s founding families? Your stories enrich the history of this place. We would love to hear from you.
Questions?
Window Restoration Committee
For questions about window gifts, please contact the church office or find a committee member’s information in the church directory. You are also welcome to speak with any committee member after Sunday service.