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Dragons in the Glass

Connecting past to present within ASI's Stories, Stonework & Stewardship campaign

For many visitors to the Turnblad Mansion, the Visby Window is one of the building’s most memorable features. Standing at 9×14 feet, this incredible window is an original feature of the 1908 building, and has been cherished by visitors for more than 110 years.

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As part of, the American Swedish Institute’s ongoing Stories, Stonework & Stewardship campaign to restore the Turnblad Mansion and Carriage House in their entirety, ASI recently contracted with New Jersey-based stainedglass experts Femenella & Associates to conduct an in-depth analysis of the window. Among many other insights from the assessment, Arthur Femenella, President of Femenella & Associates, called attention to an area of the window that features tiny, detailed dragons decorating the clothing of one of the villagers. The dragons, which also appear in the 1882 painting by Carl Gustaf Hellqvist upon which the window is based, are by no means the focal point of the remarkable window, but their impressive quality is a testament to the window’s irreplaceable value.

This assessment was funded by the Minnesota Historical Society and exemplifies one of the many moments that work conducted as part of ASI's restoration project has offered an opportunity to explore the Turnblad Mansion with fresh eyes, and to highlight the connections between the past, the present, and the future of ASI and its community. ASI has launched a $20 million campaign to rehabilitate the interiors and exteriors of the Turnblad Mansion and Carriage House. This project will reimagine the Mansion’s interior spaces for programs, gatherings, and world-class exhibitions. With your support, we can achieve this goal, and ensure that the Turnblad Mansion remains a cultural asset for future generations.

Close to $11 million has been raised to date. ASI is grateful for early gifts from clubs and affiliate groups, volunteers, and loyal supporters. Donate online or call us at (612) 871-4907

The mission is clear. The need is imperative. The time is now.

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