About the Project

History of Remembered Light

Frederick Alexander McDonald (1908-2003) served as U.S. Army Chaplain during World War II. As he traveled behind the front lines of the battlefields of Europe, he was dismayed by the destruction of sacred places. He collected and saved small shards from broken stained-glass windows in these religious sanctuaries, hoping that one day they could serve as testament to the sacrifices made by so many.

Chaplain McDonald’s family commissioned 13 artists to create what are now known as the “McDonald Windows”, weaving these shards together with Chaplain McDonald’s memories to create twenty-five works of glass art that memorialize the places where they were found. They reflect McDonald’s hope for a lasting world peace and the end of such destruction.

In 1999, the Interfaith Center at the Presidio was given the 25 stained-glass pieces that have occupied the west wing of the Chapel and been curated for traveling exhibitions. Since 2007, The McDonald Windows have been shown in the United States and in Europe, including being designated as a Smithsonian traveling exhibit. In addition to being works of glass art of exceptional quality, these windows represent the ability to make peace and art out of war.

Most of the pieces combine various glass techniques, such as leaded glass, glass painting, enameling, sandblasting, fusing, slumping, silkscreen and lamp working. Other media, such as ceramic, wood, acetate and plexiglas, have also been used. The collection is displayed as a chronological journey and finds its harmony in the steel easel – like frames and pedestals custom-made for each piece.

The traveling exhibition also includes a 5 minutes introduction video, graphics explaining Fred McDonald’s journey and a booklet of his stories, a lit display case with remaining glass shards and various archives. A catalog has been printed in 3000 copies and is available on request.

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