John La Farge (1835–1910), one of the most innovative and versatile American artists of the nineteenth century, achieved renown as a painter in oils and watercolors, as a magazine and book illustrator, as a muralist and designer of stained-glass windows, and as an author of articles and books on art and travel. A quintessential "Renaissance man" of the American Renaissance, he responded to and encouraged the eclectic tastes and interests of his sophisticated patrons. Born in New York City, NY, March 31, 1835, he discovered Newport and it's "Paradise." He died in Providence, RI, November 14, 1910.

La Farge, discoverer of a new stained glass technology, patented the opalescent glass manufacturing process in 1880. By mixing bits of various materials into the molten glass, La Farge was able to produce unique visual effects. Through the use of opalescent, ripple and confetti glass in these windows the distinctive genius of John La Farge shines through. Glass jewels add to the artistic effects. Some of the glass used in these windows was experimental in nature. His artistic skills seem to single-handedly revived the art of stain-glass design in America and abroad, most notably, Venice, Italy.

In addition to his new glass designs, La Farge used heavy plating and lead lines of various widths as well as very sophisticated mitering. These techniques give a depth and a three-dimensional aspect to the windows that other artists could not achieve. In 1880, he was hired to decorate this church, then under the pastorship of The Reverend Henry van Dyke.

Soon to follow: a gallery of select images of murals and opalescent glass that makes this building one of only two remaining buildings left with full interiors designed and decorated by La Farge.

Currently, the La Farge Restoration Fund is working to raise funds to restore the magnificent interior of the church. Hidden inside a beautiful brownstone church, is Newport's greatest jewel of the Victorian era. Please come visit, as the church doors are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 am to 4 pm and on Sunday from 11 am to 4 PM (Worship services are at 10 am).

If you would like to make a donation to the Fund, please make it payable to the La Farge Restoration Fund and mail to the Fund at the church: 73 Pelham Street, Newport RI 02840. All donations are tax deductible ( if you need a receipt for tax purposes, please let us know.)

For more information about La Farge, please visit Julie L. Sloan's website.

For more information about the La Farge Restoration Foundation, please call the church, at (401) 849-2238.