This has been a really interesting thread. Thanks to Joel and M.C for all your research. I have nothing of substance to add except for some comments on the windows.
All of the window stained glass photographs are of the Art Deco period. This period came out of the Art Nouveau and was really popular after WWI. The 20s and 30s were its heyday.
The first glass posted with the initials is probably the oldest as it reflects back some what on the swirly more feminine Art Nouveau. I have no idea what the initials stand for but would be willing to say that the glass was bought from its original home. As MC has said WMFS could stand for many things like Wesley Methodist Fellowship Society. I recall my Episcopal youth group was called "The Friendship Society" . As present day Methodists I know tons of churches were named for John Wesley. As we all kmow groups, societies and individuals generally bought windows for their churches and often their names were inscribed.
The second more modern window is definitely a later period of Art Deco.
Regardless - different artists, different origins - I should think - but well into the 1920s.
All of the window stained glass photographs are of the Art Deco period. This period came out of the Art Nouveau and was really popular after WWI. The 20s and 30s were its heyday.
The first glass posted with the initials is probably the oldest as it reflects back some what on the swirly more feminine Art Nouveau. I have no idea what the initials stand for but would be willing to say that the glass was bought from its original home. As MC has said WMFS could stand for many things like Wesley Methodist Fellowship Society. I recall my Episcopal youth group was called "The Friendship Society" . As present day Methodists I know tons of churches were named for John Wesley. As we all kmow groups, societies and individuals generally bought windows for their churches and often their names were inscribed.
The second more modern window is definitely a later period of Art Deco.
Regardless - different artists, different origins - I should think - but well into the 1920s.