Our History
Four generations. One craft. More than a century of Washington Art Glass.
From one craftsman’s livelihood to a four-generation family legacy.
The story of Washington Art Glass begins with Leonard Boertlein, who brought his craft to Washington and established the studio in 1924. The business has remained rooted in family, craftsmanship and the belief that work made well can outlive its maker.
Leonard Boertlein immigrates to America and develops his skill in the stained glass trade.
Washington Art Glass Studio is founded, beginning a family tradition that will span more than a century.
Where the story began.
Washington Art Glass Studio’s original shop — the beginning of a family craft that would span generations.
John Boertlein joins his father and later carries the studio forward, building a legacy visible in thousands of windows.
Jed Boertlein begins working full time in the shop under his father.
A growing studio.
As the studio grew, a new shop became home to the next chapter of Washington Art Glass.
Jed takes leadership of Washington Art Glass, continuing its restoration and fabrication work across the region and beyond.
Jake Boertlein grows up in the shop and becomes part of the fourth generation carrying the craft forward.
Washington Art Glass celebrates 100 years of craftsmanship.
The studio continues designing, restoring and preserving stained glass for the generations still to come.
A century of craft, still moving forward.
Washington Art Glass today — carrying more than a century of craftsmanship into the next generation.