Historical stained-glass windows on view

By Bob Bracken

Just steps from the grand homes of Swiss Avenue, sunlight streaming through brilliant stained glass has illuminated the sanctuary of Munger Place Church for more than a century, casting rich colors across the historic space and quietly telling a story of art, faith and East Dallas history.

Located on the edge of the Swiss Avenue Historic District, Munger Place Church has long been a landmark for those entering the historic Munger neighborhood. The congregation was founded in 1913 in Old East Dallas, and its current English Gothic–style sanctuary — designed by prominent Dallas architect J.D. Hill — was completed in 1925.

While the church’s stained-glass windows have been admired for generations, their exact origin was often a topic of debate. Many historians believe they were created by early East Dallas glass artist Roger McIntosh, whose work appears in numerous early 20th-century homes and buildings across Dallas. The original drawings of the windows of Jesus and the Apostles, signed by McIntosh, have since been found in the attic of McIntosh’s former house adding significant credibility to McIntosh as the artist. 

McIntosh lived just a few blocks away on Abrams Road in a house affectionately known as “The Shack,” which still stands today. The home contains a remarkable collection of his stained-glass work, and years after his death, original drawings believed to be designs for the Munger Place Church windows were discovered in its attic — further strengthening the connection between the artist and the church.

Visitors will have the opportunity to experience and learn more about these beautiful windows during the 51st Annual Swiss Avenue Historic District Mother’s Day Home Tour. The church is planning to offer both self-guided and guided tours, guest speakers and a 100-year birthday party.   The tour takes place May 9 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and May 10 from noon-6 p.m., with the church sanctuary opening to the tour at 10 a.m. Saturday and 1 p.m. Sunday. There will be a 100th anniversary celebration both days at 1 p.m., a guest speaker on the stained-glass windows and Roger McIntosh both days at 2 p.m., and a speaker on the history of the East Dallas neighborhood each afternoon.

In addition to touring the sanctuary, guests can explore seven amazing historic homes, treat “mom” to a Mother’s Day Royal Tea curated by a former chef to Queen Elizabeth II, listen to free live music in the park by an amazing line up of musicians, visit the vendor market and children’s activity area, and ride complimentary horse-drawn carriages. Complementary shuttle buses are available and there is a new walking tour offering information on additional houses along the way.

More information and tickets are available at SAHD.org.