Century Old Stained Glass at St. Francis Undergoes Restoration

Restoration crews began work on November 12, 2025 to repair and preserve several stained glass windows at St. Francis de Sales Cathedral in Baker City. The windows, which have been part of the cathedral for roughly 102 years, are undergoing conservation to address age related wear and to stabilize the glass and the frames that support it.

Parish representatives and restoration specialists outlined goals for the project as preserving original materials where possible, stabilizing structural elements, and preventing further deterioration. The work includes careful cleaning, consolidation of fragile glass areas, and repairs to the supporting frames that hold the panels in place. Specialists said portions of the project will be visible to the public as restoration progresses, allowing parishioners and visitors to see conservation techniques and results.

The cathedral windows are significant both as works of art and as elements of Baker City history. Their designs contribute to the interior light and atmosphere of the worship space, and they are part of the cultural and architectural fabric of the downtown area. For long standing members of the parish and for the broader community, preserving these windows maintains a tangible connection to the cathedral s past and to the generations who have gathered there.

Beyond aesthetic value, the restoration carries practical community implications. Conservation work helps ensure the long term stability of the windows and reduces the risk of damage that could affect the building s interior or create safety concerns. The project also provides an opportunity for local engagement with heritage care, as visible stages of the restoration allow people to learn about preservation methods and the choices involved in retaining original features.

Funding and scheduling details were provided by parish staff and the conservation team, who described a phased approach that will allow ongoing use of parts of the cathedral while work continues. That approach aims to balance the needs of worship and community events with the careful, often slow paced nature of glass conservation. Specific dates for public viewings or open house events are expected to be announced as the project advances.

The restoration at St. Francis de Sales is part of a wider effort to safeguard Baker City s historic resources as they enter their second century. By investing in professional conservation, the parish and its partners are working to keep the cathedral s windows both safe and beautiful for future generations, while fostering a sense of stewardship and continuity in the local community.